The University of Queensland

The function and maintenance of aggressive mimics: the cleaner fish - fangblenny system (2006–2011)

Abstract:

Aggressive mimics are predatory species, which attack unsuspecting victims that are confused by their resemblance to a harmless or mutually beneficial species. However, little is known about the nature and evolution of these intriguing impostors. In this study, I will focus on cleaner fish and their fangblenny fish mimics to provide exciting new insights into how aggressive mimics are maintained in ecosystems. I will investigate how the success of mimics is related to the relationship between models and the victims learning and perceptual abilities, using a combination of experimental and manipulative behavioural studies and in-situ non-subjective colour analyses.

Grant type:

ARC Discovery Projects

Researchers:

• 

  Associate Professor Karen Cheney

  UQ Amplify Associate Professor
  

  School of the Environment

  Faculty of Science

Funded by:

Australian Research Council