Acoustic aposematism
- Pronunciation
- /uh-KOO-stik ap-oh-SEE-muh-tiz-uhm/
- Category
- Behavior
Definition
A form of aposematic signaling where insects use sound to deter predators. The sounds may be loud and unpleasant, or they may involve vibrations that startle the predator.
Etymology
From Greek 'apo-', meaning 'away', and 'sema', meaning 'sign'.
Example
The clicking sounds produced by some caterpillars are believed to be an example of acoustic aposematism, deterring predators from attempting to eat them.
Synonyms
- Acoustic warning signal
Related Terms
- Aposematism
- Defense behavior
- Predator deterrence