Monarch mimic other than viceroy

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In summary, the conversation discusses the discovery of a butterfly with orange wings, black edges, white spots, and one black spot in the middle of each wing. The question arises if this could be a new species of butterfly that mimics the monarch. However, it is determined that the butterfly does not have the distinct features of the monarch or the viceroy, such as scent gland spots or a stripe. Further research is needed to determine the identity of this butterfly.
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I once saw a butterfly that looked a lot like a monarch. It had orange wings with a black edge and white spots on the edge. It also had 1 black spot in the middle of each wing.

So I knew it wasn't a monarch or a viceroy. Could I have discovered a new species of butterfly that mimics a monarch?
 
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No. It didn't have the scent gland spots of the monarch or the stripe of the viceroy. The spots were more like eyespots other than being solid colored.
 

FAQ: Monarch mimic other than viceroy

What is the purpose of monarch mimicry?

The purpose of monarch mimicry is to protect the monarch butterfly from predators. By mimicking the bright colors and patterns of the toxic viceroy butterfly, monarchs are less likely to be eaten by predators who have learned to avoid the viceroy's unpleasant taste.

How do monarchs mimic the viceroy butterfly?

Monarchs mimic the viceroy butterfly through their coloration and wing patterns. Both butterflies have orange and black coloration, with white spots and black veins on their wings. This makes it difficult for predators to differentiate between the two species.

Are there other butterflies that mimic the monarch or viceroy?

Yes, there are other butterflies that mimic the monarch or viceroy, such as the red-spotted purple and the queen butterfly. These species also have similar coloration and patterns to the monarch and viceroy, providing them with protection from predators.

Is monarch mimicry a form of Batesian mimicry or Mullerian mimicry?

Monarch mimicry is a form of Batesian mimicry, where a harmless species (monarch) mimics a toxic or unpalatable species (viceroy) to protect itself from predators. Mullerian mimicry, on the other hand, occurs when two or more unpalatable species mimic each other for mutual protection.

Do all monarch butterflies mimic the viceroy?

No, not all monarch butterflies mimic the viceroy. The level of mimicry can vary among monarch populations, with some having stronger mimicry than others. Additionally, some monarchs may not mimic the viceroy at all, potentially due to different environmental factors or adaptations to local predators.

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