episematic
/ˌɛpɪsɪˈmatɪk
/adjective Zoology
(Of coloration or markings) serving to help recognition by animals of other individuals of the same species.Recognition markings are episematic, assisting the individuals of the same species to keep together when their safety depends upon numbers, the young and inexperienced benefiting by the example of the older.
Origin
Late 19th century: from epi- 'upon' + Greek sēma 'sign' + -atic.