warning coloration

noun

Biology.

1. a bold, distinctive pattern of color characteristic of a poisonous or unpalatable organism, as the skunk or the monarch butterfly, that functions as a warning to and defense against predators.

warning coloration

1. Conspicuously recognizable markings of an animal that serve to warn potential predators of the nuisance or harm that would come from attacking or eating it. The bold patterns of skunks and the bright colors of poison arrow frogs are examples of warning coloration.

2. Also called aposematic coloration

3. Compare camouflage

Word History and Origins

Origin of warning coloration¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The striking bright blues, yellows, and oranges of poison dart frogs are a classic example of warning coloration, sending a message to predators to stay away.

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Along with the theory of warning coloration the theory of mimicry has been propounded.

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The most interesting and most conclusive example of warning coloration is, however, furnished by caterpillars, because in this case the facts have been carefully ascertained experimentally by competent observers.

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The Monarch is thus an example of what has often been called warning coloration.

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There has, however, recently been a reaction among naturalists in regard to the validity of many supposed examples of warning coloration and the whole subject is still open to careful investigation.

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