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 25 Batesian mimics DHJanzen100188.jpg high resolution
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| Unrolling a Heliconia leaf, at its innermost edge are encountered a few adult Arescus (Chrysomelidae) that have been mating there, feeding there, and (by virtue of their location), hiding there. That is to say, here they are not exposed to foliage gleaning birds. The feeding damage to the leaf is theirs, though the slow-growing larvae also feed on these tender young parts of the leaves. All three individuals are the same species (!). Their bright color patterns say something about their biology. It should be noted that this foliage has little or no defensive secondary compounds, and these beetles belong to a group of Chrysomelidae notorious for being edible Batesian mimics (note the inferential use of taxonomy). | ||
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