aposematic

adj

Etymology: From apo- + sematic.

1. That serves as a warning to predators, as of toxicity, especially falsely.

   “Episematic characters are far less common than aposematic, and these than cryptic; although, as regards the latter comparison, the opposite impression is generally produced from the fact that concealment is so successfully attained.”

   “Contrasting patterns of red and black are classic aposematic warnings that signal would-be predators to “back off, leave me alone … if you do not, you will regret the consequences.””