In contrast to the typical mimicry system, this case involves the mimic (defenseless insect) and the model/ selecting agent (wasp) which is the same individual. The wasp in this case is a model, mimicked not only by other insects, but also other wasps (Pereira et al). This close resemblance between different species of wasps increases likelihood of survival, because predators will know to avoid certain patterns/colors without having to test it and attempting to eat one of the wasps. This works in the insects’ and the wasps’ favors. Based on this, it can be deduced that the mimicry of wasps by insects such as moths can be a combination of Mullerian mimicry and Batesian mimicry. Wasps don’t attack other wasps from the same nest, because it could be very dangerous. But it could be helpful to be able to differentiate themselves from prey that mimic them. Wasps have gotten better in being able to differentiate between mimickers and wasps from the same nest, hence the mimickers have to accurately resemble the wasps; meaning wasp resemblance is driven by wasps that can recognize other wasps from the same nest, and other predators such as birds seeking to prey on …show more content…
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