Batesian mimics influence mimicry ring evolution.
Mathematical models of mimicry typically involve artificial prey species with fixed colorations or appearances; this enables a comparison of predation rates to demonstrate the level of protection a mimic might be afforded. Fruitful theoretical results have been produced using this method, but it is also useful to examine the possible evolutionary consequences of mimicry. To that end, we present individual-based evolutionary simulation models where prey colorations are free to evolve. We use the models to examine the effect of Batesian mimics on Müllerian mimics and mimicry rings. Results show that Batesian mimics can potentially incite Müllerian mimicry relationships and encourage mimicry ring convergence.
Franks
Daniel W
DW
Biosystems Group, School of Computing, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK. dwfranks@comp.leeds.ac.uk
Noble
Jason
J
D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D003198:Computer Simulation; D017753:Ecosystem; D008957:Models, Genetic; D010641:Phenotype; D010858:Pigmentation / Q000502:physiology; D011235:Predatory Behavior; D012641:Selection, Genetic