Function of the "Warning Coloration" in Larvae of a Diurnal Moth, Pryeria sinica MOORE (Lepidoptera : Zygaenidae)

抄録

Pryeria sinica larvae were given to the lacertid lizards, Takydromus tachdromoides, in other to determine the protective effect of the conspicuous coloration of the larvae. Pryeria larva was protected perfectly from attacks by the lizards because of peculiarsmelling fluid secreted on the body surface of the larva. Yellow and black body color of Pryeria larva had a meaning as the "warning coloration" at least for a lezard. Characteristics of predatory behavior in Takydromus were analyzed and it was indicated that not only visual cues but also other factor(s) played important role in the process of recognition and choice of preys. Such a system appeared to be considerably defferent from that of birds.