Across-order Batesian mimics are expected to be evolutionary constrained when parasitizing a mimicry ring of Müllerian mimics, due to morphological, physiological, and mechanical constraints. To explore this question, I study two Polythoridae damselflies that are likely to mimic glasswing butterflies, at least in wing coloration. Glasswing butterflies form part of several Neotropical mimicry rings.

 

My first results show advergence in three fundamental traits: wing coloration, as perceived by birds, wing shape, and wing-beat frequency. This is the first work offering support for a complex, multi-trait aposematic signal involving coloration, morphology and locomotion. Natural selection may therefore shape multi-trait aposematic signals within the evolution of mimicry rings, facilitating the success of Batesian mimics. Last but not least, this is the first documented example of mimicry in Odonata.

 

The next step in this project will be exploring the resilience of coloration and morphology in predation avoidance in nature, as well as exploring in much more detail the locomotor mimicry between the mimics and the model. Interestingly, while butterflies are well-known for beating their fore- and hindwings coupled, damselflies can beat each wing independently. However, human observers usually misidentify the damselflies and the butterflies in flight.