OCR Text |
Show 1887.] VALUE OF COLOUR AND MARKINGS IN INSECTS. 219 isects (other than Larva). xperiments. A. Weismann. E. B. Poulton. One was placed in cage of very hungry L. muralis, and was crushed and most of the fluid contents extracted and probably eaten ; however, palatable pupte were swallowed as a whole. This pupa was untouched at first. One specimen eaten by L. muralis; no apparent hesitation or caution in capture. How far evidence supports the theory of "warning" and "mimetic" colours (Bates and Wallace). Strong support, for if palatable it would have been treated very differently. Strong support, from the reluctance of Birds and rejection by Lizards. At first seems to be a difficulty; but I have always thought that the suggested resemblance is very imperfect, and perhaps a remnant of a former more perfect mimicry, reliance being now placed on powerful flight and concealment during rest. Insufficient evidence ; but opposed to the theory as far as it goes. Bearing of evidence on Poulton's suggestion, as before. Strong support. Strong support in Jenner Weir's explanation of the Birds' behaviour, and some support in the Lizard's attempts. No evidence, the insect being palatable and in this instance not terrifying. No evidence, unless it should be proved to be a nauseous insect. |