Visual and olfactory components and total probability of being killed.

Abstract

<p>Different fixed values for VC (visual conspicuousness) are plotted against OSD (olfactory signal and defence) values, showing variation in the total probability of being killed (Φ). Selective forces acting on conspicuousness undergo a shift when defence levels reach a critical value (point of intersection). Our model predicts that maximum conspicuousness is the best strategy when the individuals are maximally defended through OSD.</p