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aposematic

[ap-uh-suh-mat-ik]

adjective

Zoology.
  1. colored or constructed in a way that indicates special capabilities for defense.



aposematic

/ ˌæpəsɪˈmætɪk /

adjective

  1. (of the coloration of certain distasteful or poisonous animals) characterized by bright conspicuous markings, which predators recognize and learn to avoid; warning

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • aposematically adverb
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Word History and Origins

Origin of aposematic1

First recorded in 1885–90; apo- + sematic
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Word History and Origins

Origin of aposematic1

C19: from apo- + Greek sēma sign
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Most prior research on how predators perceive aposematic or conspicuously colorful displays has revolved around carnivorous birds.

Read more on New York Times

There are about 123 known species of frogs worldwide with warning colors, known as aposematic coloration, on the back or underside of their bodies, says João Tonini, a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University and collaborator on Projeto Bromeligenous, a project studying the relationship between Brazil's frogs and bromeliad plants.

Read more on National Geographic

They also share a variety of other convergent traits, from small body size to aposematic coloration and diurnal activity, despite being found in places as disparate as Cuba, Australia, South America, and Madagascar.

Read more on Scientific American

Müllerian mimicry is a form of mutualism, in which different toxic species benefit by having the same aposematic colors or patterns.

Read more on Scientific American

The tissues of aposematic insects generally possess great elasticity and power of resistance, so that large numbers of individuals can recover after very severe treatment.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

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aportaposematic coloration