New study maps dramatic 100-million-year explosion in color signals used by animals

New study maps dramatic 100-million-year explosion in color signals used by animals

Colors are widely used in communication within and among animal species. For example, peacocks proudly display their vibrant tails, adorned with iridescent eyespots, to attract peahens for courtship. This is a classic example of sexual selection using color signaling. Conspicuous colors are also displayed by toxic animal species, including many venomous snakes and the brilliantly … Read more

Study maps dramatic 100-million-year explosion in color signals

Study maps dramatic 100-million-year explosion in color signals

The nonvenomous Arizona mountain kingsnake, which resembles a venomous coral snake, has a survival advantage by warning off would-be predators that avoid colorful coral snakes. Credit: John J. Wiens Colors are widely used in communication within and among animal species. For example, peacocks proudly display their vibrant tails, adorned with iridescent eyespots, to attract peahens … Read more