Question

Write the two types of mimicry.

Answer 1

Hint: To protect itself from predation, mimicry is the resemblance of a species to other species in form or behaviour. The mimic represents the model organism in this.

Complete Answer:
- In biology, mimicry is a phenomena characterised by the superficial similarity of two or more species which are not taxonomically closely related. This similarity confers a benefit on one or both species by which the species deceive the animate agent of natural selection, such as defence from predation.
- The selection agent interacts with related species specifically and is deceived by their resemblance. Defensive mimicry and non-defensive mimicry are the two primary modes of mimicry.
(I) Defensive mimicry enables species to defend them from predators. Batesian mimicry, Müllarian mimicry and Mertensian mimicry are three forms of defensive mimicry.
(II) To remain unnoticed by their prey, predators use non-defensive mimicry. Aggressive mimicry is a form of non-defensive imitation.

Additional information: In a number of environments, scientists have observed mimicry. Below, we'll outline a few especially fascinating cases.
- Some kingsnakes look the same as coral snakes. Kingsnakes are harmless, but predators are vulnerable to them. Coral snakes, though, are venomous beasts that can protect themselves well. Kingsnakes are capable of deterring predators by mimicking coral snakes.
- As a means of defence, certain species imitate themselves. For example, many insects have large eye-spots on their backs. Such eye spots trick predators into believing that they are being observed by their prey. Many predators stop targeting creatures who watch them, so the insects stay safe from predators.

Note: Some imitations look just like the models they resemble, and others have just a faint similarity. In fact, this applies to species that use mimicry to escape predators with poor vision.