Identity theft: investigating fraud in nature
By Michelle Catton

If it looks like a bee, and sounds like a bee, there's a good chance it's a hoverfly. Tom Sherratt's research team investigates mimicry in nature.

OTTAWA — Tom Sherratt’s evolutionary biology research lab at Carleton University doesn’t look very exciting. There are no researchers in white lab coats making detailed notes on their clipboards. There are no Petri dishes or microscopes or impressive diagnostic machines with blinking lights. There isn’t an animal specimen in sight; not one primate or reptile or insect being probed.

Empty tables fill the room, three computers line one wall, and a shelf littered with books, journals and manuscripts occupies another. But looks can be deceiving.

According to Sherratt, his team is examining and clarifying evolutionary theory first presented by Darwin — the grandfather of evolution himself. They are studying the natural phenomenon of mimicry.

“The study of mimicry has influenced evolutionary thought perhaps more than any other subject,” says Sherratt.

In nature, imitation is not only the sincerest form of flattery, it is sometimes the best way to compete for survival.

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