Aposematism (from Greek ἀπό
apo away, σ̑ημα
sema sign, coined by
Edward Bagnall Poulton), perhaps most commonly known in the context of
warning coloration, describes a family of
antipredator adaptations where a
warning signal is associated with the unprofitability of a prey item to potential
predators. Aposematism is one form of an "advertising" signal (with many others existing, such as the bright colours of flowers which lure
pollinators). The warning signal may take the form of conspicuous
colours,
sounds,
odours or other
perceivable characteristics. Aposematic signals are beneficial for both the predator and prey, both of which avoid potential harm.