Which of the following is an example of Batesian mimicry?

• A. A predator evolving to resemble its prey
• B. A plant developing thorns to deter herbivores
• C. A harmless butterfly mimicking the coloration of a toxic butterfly
• D. Two toxic species of frogs sharing similar warning colors

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of Batesian mimicry: Batesian mimicry is a form of mimicry where a harmless species evolves to imitate the warning signals of a harmful species to avoid predation.
2. Identify the key characteristics of Batesian mimicry: The mimic is harmless, while the model (the species being imitated) is harmful or toxic.
3. Analyze the options given: Look for the example where a harmless species is mimicking a harmful one.
4. Option analysis: 'A harmless butterfly mimicking the coloration of a toxic butterfly' fits the definition of Batesian mimicry because the harmless butterfly is imitating the warning signals of a toxic butterfly.
5. Conclude that the correct example of Batesian mimicry is the harmless butterfly mimicking the toxic butterfly, as it involves a harmless species adopting the appearance of a harmful one to avoid predators.