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