托福口语 Task 4

Today we're going to talk about how animals use camouflage not just to hide from predators, but also to hunt. This is called 'aggressive mimicry.' The main point is that some predators have evolved to look like something harmless or even attractive to their prey, which allows them to get close enough to strike. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the anglerfish. It lives in the deep, dark ocean where light is scarce. It has a fleshy growth on its head that glows, dangling like a lure. Smaller fish are attracted to the light, thinking it's a tasty meal. When they swim close, the anglerfish snaps them up. Second, think of the orchid mantis. It resembles a pink and white flower. Insects like bees and butterflies land on it to collect nectar, but instead, they become the mantis's dinner. In both cases, the predator uses a deceptive appearance to lure prey into striking distance.