Aposematic Signals to Sympatric and Allopatric Lizard Predators

Aposematic coloration allows toxic prey to signal unprofitability and serves as a key model in evolutionary biology. Using a visually oriented predator, the Swinhoe’s tree lizard (Diploderma swinhonis), we tested whether coloration enhances learning and memory of aversive prey. Lizards were offered quinine-treated crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus) colored red (aposematic) or green (non-aposematic). After a single exposure, lizards rejected both prey types, but showed greater hesitation toward red crickets in later trials. Memory of both prey types persisted for up to 60 days, with strong generalization from colored to uncolored prey. These results reveal nuanced learning and long-term memory in visually hunting lizards, supporting their value as models for studying aposematism.