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Data from: Mimicry disparity in ant-mimicking spiders using an avian visual model

Vickers, Michael1; Booysen, Ruan1; Haddad, Charles1

Published Sep 24, 2026 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.1g1jwsvbs

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Abstract

Batesian mimicry is a widespread evolutionary strategy in which palatable species gain protection by resembling defended models, yet mimetic systems often vary substantially in accuracy. Ant mimicry (myrmecomorphy) is a prominent example, occurring across diverse arthropod lineages and ecological contexts. However, how variation in resemblance is structured across visual traits and environments remains poorly understood from a predator-centred perspective. We examined perceptual similarity between 16 ant-mimicking spiders and their putative ant models from Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa, and included non-co-occurring ant species to place focal comparisons within broader patterns of ant colour variation. Using avian visual modelling, we quantified chromatic and achromatic contrasts across body regions in spiders (prosoma and opisthosoma) and ants (head plus thorax and abdomen). Similarity varied among species pairs and visual channels; some associations showed close chromatic resemblance but weaker achromatic similarity. Body region had little influence on perceptual distance, whereas exploratory analyses suggested habitat context may contribute to variation in mimetic similarity in spiders but not model ants. Overall, ant mimicry shows trait- and context-dependent variation in perceptual similarity. This supports the view that imperfect mimicry reflects a widespread, evolutionarily stable outcome of selection acting across multiple traits and perceptual channels.