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Functions of myrmecomorphy in the arthropods and its occurrence and potential functions in true bugs
Hrebiková, Tereza ; Exnerová, Alice (advisor) ; Pipek, Pavel (referee)
Myrmecomorphy (ant mimicry) is structural and chromatic (sometimes also chemical and behavioural) resemblance to ants. Ant-mimicking species can be found in many arthropod taxa particularly in spiders and true bugs. Myrmecomorphy may serve several functions, protecting the mimics either from the ants themselves or from predators. Mechanisms of ant mimicry have been studied mostly in spiders and some insect taxa (e.g. beetles). In true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera), ant mimicry exists in many species belonging to several families, and it is present in both larvae and adults. Notwithstanding its frequent occurrence, the literature about ant mimicry in true bugs is limited only to several incomplete lists of myrmecomorphic species, hypotheses on mimicry functions, and a few experimental studies. This thesis aims to review (1) experimental studies focused on function of ant mimicry in spiders and insects and (2) occurrence, form and potential function of ant mimicry in true bugs (Heteroptera). Key words: Myrmecomorphy, function, Arthropoda, spiders, insects, Heteroptera
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