Camouflage is the opposite of signaling; it’s producing colors in order not to be seen or recognized. In some species, signaling then arose—the camouflage machinery was pressed into service as a way of communicating and broadcasting. Colors and patterns were now produced to be seen and noted by observers, such as rivals or potential mates. Intermediate between the clear cases of camouflage and of signaling are deimatic displays. These are dramatic patterns often produced while fleeing a predator. It’s hypothesized that they are an attempt to startle or confuse the foe—to suddenly look
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