Mimicry in Hawk-moth Species for Offspring Survival

 

In the larval stage of the Hawk-moths life cycle, individuals exhibit cunningly deceptive markings resembling reptilian facial features (shown below in Figure 1). 

Figure 1. A threatened Hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor) caterpillar displaying impressive markings, mimicking a snake head, to ward off predators.

This type of mimicry, known as Batesian mimicry, is used by a harmless species in order to avoid predation (Mappes & Alatalo, 1997). By mimicking the features of a snake, Hawk-moths larvae send a signal to potential predators that they are not palatable (containing toxic bodily fluids), or that they themselves are harmful predators. Deceiving predators, even for just a brief moment, enables the larvae an opportunity to escape mealtime. This physical adaptation allows a greater chance of offspring survival, and ultimately impacts on the survival of the entire population  (Rothschild, 1989). 

Figure 2. Spurge Hawk-moth (Hyles euphorbia) and it's eggs, disguised on a spurge plant as unripe seeds.

 

Spurge Hawk-moths (Hyles euphorbia), pictured in Figure 2, provide another example of mimicry used to aid offspring survival. Spurge Hawk-moths lay their eggs on the apex of spurge plants, within full sight of predators. The eggs, however, strongly resemble the unripe seeds of spurge plants and therefore disguise themselves as an unpleasant meal (Rothschild, 1989).  

References:

Mappes, J. & Alatalo, R.V. 1997, "Batesian Mimicry and Signal Accuracy", Evolution, vol. 51, no. 6, pp. 2050-2053.

Rothschild, M. 1989, "Moths and memory", Endeavour, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 15-19.

Figures:  

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 Rothschild, M. 1989, "Moths and memory", Endeavour, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 15-19.