Question

Devise an experiment to test the hypothesis that bright orange coloration in butterflies acts as a "warning" to potential

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

As I don't have access to live butterflies, the control group would be clay models that do not exhibit warning coloration, e.g. beige / white / brown. In contrast, the experimental group would be the clay models that exhibir a strong warning coloration such as color orange / red.

After preparing the clay 'prey', I would locate them in specific places outside where birds are able to detect them. Moreover, I would use a webcam to monitor the recurrence of birds in the area.

1st experiment: Test whether birds approach the prey that exhibits both warning coloration (experimental group) and dull coloration (control group). Then, record the minutes they spent wandering near the prey.

2nd experiment: Test wheter birds feed on the prey that exhibits both warning coloration (experimental group) and dull coloration (control group). Record time.

Carry out statistical analyses.

Present results and discuss.