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3D-Printed Models Map How Imperfect Mimicry Persists in Nature

Color accuracy has emerged as the key determinant of predator deception in trials that show spiders accept more imperfect mimics than birds.

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Overview

  • A team led by Dr. Tom Reader and Dr. Christopher Taylor at the University of Nottingham used life-size 3D-printed insect models to manipulate shape, color, pattern and size independently in controlled predation trials.
  • Trials in various predator communities reveal color accuracy is the dominant trait for mimic success, with size also shaping avoidance in some cases.
  • Predator-specific assays indicate spiders tolerate higher levels of mimic inaccuracy than birds before attacking prey models.
  • Ongoing experiments are testing whether exposure to multiple model species boosts protection for less accurate mimics.
  • Researchers are employing 3D stimuli to recreate ancestral and prospective insect phenotypes to further chart mimicry’s adaptive landscape.