Aggressive Bugs and Warring Antelopes - Encounters of Perilous Insects and Aggressive Antelope Clashes
In the recent BMC Ecology and Evolution photography competition, two captivating images have caught the attention of the scientific community.
Firstly, a mysterious beetle species, characterised by its black and yellow body, displayed a deimatic display of sudden colour changes and aggressive headbutting behaviour towards the camera. Dr. Abhijeet Bayani, from the Indian Institute of Science, captured this fascinating spectacle, as the beetle transformed into a bull-like figure, complete with bright yellow spots, to deter perceived predators. This defensive behaviour is an example of aposematic signaling, a strategy that uses sudden colour changes and threatening postures to warn predators and avoid attacks [2][5].
The exact species name of the beetle remains unknown, as no expert has been able to identify it yet. However, the distinctive behavioural and colour change traits have helped identify it in the contest coverage.
Another winning image features two fighting Saiga antelopes in a steppe. The Saiga antelope, known for its large, tube-shaped nose that filters dust and warms cold air, has been the subject of much concern due to its survival. Questions about its history, such as whether it has survived the Ice Age, habitat destruction, and human poaching, and if it will survive the mating season, have been raised [6][7].
The photography competition, hosted by the journal "BMC Ecology and Evolution", showcases various motifs. Alongside these two images, a photograph of a newly hatched leafhopper species gathered on the underside of a leaf for protection and better growth due to higher humidity was also awarded. It's interesting to note that the likelihood of an individual leafhopper becoming prey is reduced when they gather in a group [3].
The competition's editors praised the images for their contrast between the cartoonish faces of the animals and the threatening violence depicted. Particularly noteworthy is a photo of the beetle, as it moved its face, which resembled a mask, along with every movement during the photo shoot [1][4]. Another photo of the beetle in a threatening pose was also recognised in the competition.
These captivating images not only highlight the beauty and complexity of the natural world but also raise important questions about the survival of the species depicted. The competition serves as a reminder of the need for continued research and conservation efforts to protect these fascinating creatures.
- The captivating image of the beetle's deimatic display, captured by Dr. Abhijeet Bayani, showcases an employment of aposematic signaling, a strategy often observed in the realm of science and health-and-wellness, which aims to transmit warnings to potential predators.
- The photography competition, hosted by the journal "BMC Ecology and Evolution", also focuses on the realm of sports, as evident by the image of the Saiga antelopes engaging in a fierce fight, highlighting the survival challenges these creatures face in their respective habitats.
