Citation
Aggressive Mimicry in Photuris Fireflies
TL;DR
Photuris females mimic Photinus female flash patterns
Discovery that Photuris firefly females mimic the flash patterns of Photinus females to lure and consume Photinus males. Demonstrates how honest signaling systems can be exploited by deceptive mimics, and documents the beginning of counter-adaptation in victims.
Key Findings from Lloyd (1965)
- Photuris females mimic Photinus female flash patterns
- Photinus males approach mimics and are eaten
- Aggressive mimicry exploits honest signal system
- Arms race between mimics and victims ongoing