adjective
- relating to or denoting conspicuous coloring or markings that warn predators of an animal's toxicity, unpalatability, or danger
Usage: biology; ecology
Examples
- The bright red coloring of poison dart frogs is aposematic, signaling to predators that they are toxic.
- Aposematic displays in insects often include bold stripes or spots that are easy to recognize.
- The yellow and black pattern of a wasp is a classic example of aposematic coloration.
- Many venomous snakes have aposematic markings to warn potential threats.
- Aposematic signals evolve when predators learn to associate certain colors with danger.