Insect Predation Avoidance Strategies

Flashcards covering insect predation avoidance strategies, including mimicry, crypsis, toxic compounds and venoms.

Mimicry

Insects resemble inanimate objects (leaves/sticks) or predators to avoid predation.

Crypsis

Coloration and patterns allow insects to blend into the background.

Startle Coloration

A defense mechanism that uses bright colors or patterns to startle or confuse predators.

Batesian Mimicry

A non-toxic mimic is protected by resembling an aposematic colored toxic model; mimic must be rare, model common.

Mullerian Mimicry

Several toxic or dangerous insects share a common aposematic color pattern.

Class I Anti-Predator Toxicants

Immediate or delayed toxins that teach predators to avoid similar insects.

Class II Anti-Predator Compounds

Non-toxic, unpleasant tastes or smells that discourage feeding.

Cardenolides

A toxic compound produced by Monarch butterflies.

Cyanogenic Glycosides

A toxic compound produced by Box elder bugs.

Coccinellin

A toxic Alkaloid produced by ladybugs.

Cantharadins

A toxic blistering agent produced by Blister Beetles that cause chemical burns and blisters.

Brachinus Beetles (Bombardier Beetles)

Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) that spray hot peroxyquinone at attackers.

Wasp Venom Components

Histamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine. Proteins cause vasodilation, released through the stinger.