The Coevolution of Milk Snake and Coral Snake
How are the milk snake and the coral snake an example of coevolution?
a) The coral snake and the milk snake form a mutualistic symbiosis.
b) The coral snake and the milk snake have both evolved to eat the same types of prey.
c) The coral snake is selectively favored by mimicking the non-venomous milk snake.
d) The milk snake is selectively favored by mimicking the venomous coral snake.
Answer:
The milk snake is selectively favored by mimicking the venomous coral snake.
The milk snake and the coral snake are an example of coevolution, specifically Batesian mimicry. This phenomenon occurs when a harmless species evolves to mimic the appearance of a harmful species to deter predators.
The coral snake is highly venomous, and its bright red, yellow, and black coloration serves as a warning to potential predators. On the other hand, the milk snake has evolved to mimic the coloration of the coral snake to avoid being preyed upon. This mimicry benefits the milk snake by protecting it from predators that are aware of the coral snake's venomous nature.
By mimicking the venomous coral snake, the milk snake gains a survival advantage in its ecosystem. This interaction between the two snake species showcases a fascinating example of coevolution, where their evolutionary paths have intertwined in a way that benefits one species while influencing the behavior of another.