What is a defensive display where bold colors or patterns on an insect's hind wings burst suddenly into view called?

The term for a defensive display where bold colors or patterns on an insect's hind wings suddenly become visible is known as a flash display. This phenomenon serves as a surprising visual cue that can startle predators, causing them to hesitate or momentarily lose focus, which provides the insect an opportunity to escape. Essentially, the sudden appearance of bright colors can disrupt the predator's approach and alter its perception of the insect's presence, enhancing the insect's chances of survival.

In contrast to other options, camouflage refers to blending in with the environment, which does not apply in this context since a flash display specifically involves a sudden reveal of color. Mimicry involves an organism resembling another to gain an advantage, but it does not encompass the rapid visual display characteristic of a flash display. The startle response might seem similar, but it more broadly refers to an animal's reaction to a sudden stimulus, while the term "flash display" accurately describes the specific tactic used by insects to deter predators through sudden color changes.