What does the conspicuous black and yellow pattern of the yellow-bellied sea snake function as to warn potential attackers?
Answer
An aposematic signal indicating high venom potency or unpalatability.
The highly distinctive two-tone coloration, featuring a dark dorsal half sharply contrasted with a bright yellow ventral side, serves a critical defensive purpose. This pattern functions as an aposematic signal, which is a visual warning displayed by organisms that are dangerous or unpalatable to potential predators. In the case of *H. platurus*, this coloration warns predators that the snake possesses highly potent elapid venom and may also be toxic or unpalatable if consumed. Observations support this, as marine fish or leopard seals that have ingested parts of the snake often regurgitate the flesh shortly thereafter.
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