There are over 175 species of poison dart frogs, all with bright coloration that warns potential predators to stay away. It's not just an act, though; poison dart frogs are extremely toxic and most animals that attempt to eat one will end up paralyzed or dead. Which 2 defense mechanisms do poison dart frogs exhibit from the options below?

• A. Aposematic coloration & Batesian mimicry.
• B. Aposematic coloration & Müllerian mimicry.
• C. Aposematic coloration & mechanical defense.
• D. Cryptic coloration & Müllerian mimicry.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key characteristics of poison dart frogs: they are brightly colored and extremely toxic.
2. Understand the concept of aposematic coloration: it is a defense mechanism where bright colors warn predators of an organism's toxicity or unpalatability.
3. Learn about Müllerian mimicry: it involves two or more toxic species that share similar warning signals, reinforcing the avoidance behavior in predators.
4. Evaluate the options: Aposematic coloration is clearly exhibited by poison dart frogs due to their bright colors. Müllerian mimicry is applicable because multiple toxic species can share similar warning signals.
5. Conclude that the two defense mechanisms exhibited by poison dart frogs are aposematic coloration and Müllerian mimicry, as these align with their characteristics and the provided correct answer.