A Case of Pseudo-mimicry

Abstract

ACCIDENTAL resemblances between insects are to be expected. The immense number of species and the necessary limitation in the variety of colours and patterns must lead to coincidences, as, I believe, was first pointed out by Mr. F. E. Beddard in his book on “Animal Coloration.” The coincidences would, of course, be relatively more numerous when the patterns are simple. Accidental resemblances being independent of locality and of an origin based upon utility, it follows that a very small proportion of the total number of cases are to be expected to occur under conditions which are the characteristic concomitants of true mimetic resemblance.