Aggressive mimicry


aggressive mimicry
aggressive mimicry
(ə-grěs’ĭv)
A form of mimicry in which a predator (the mimic) closely resembles another organism (the model) that is attractive to a third organism (the dupe) on which the mimic preys. The anglerfish is an example of aggressive mimicry, having a modified dorsal spine that mimics a worm or small shrimp and serves as a lure to attract its prey. Compare Batesian mimicry, Müllerian mimicry.

Historical Examples

In the cases of aggressive mimicry an animal resembles some object which is attractive to its prey.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6 Various

Now this cuckoo is much like a hawk in appearance, so much so that it affords the stock example of aggressive mimicry among birds.
Glimpses of Indian Birds Douglas Dewar

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