Warning coloration and horizontal gene transfer

From what I know, the answer is not likely. The only way for something like this to be true is if a vector species transferred the isolated gene into the reproductive system of the recipient animal, and it got incorporated into the recipients DNA seamlessly. The probability or likelihood of that occurring is astronomical and holds very little basis in biology. (In fact, apart from bacteria, there is no evidence of this in more sophisticated species.)

The phenomenon you are referring to is called convergent evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when different species, often from different lineages or with different ancestors, independently evolve similar traits or characteristics in response to similar environmental pressures or ecological niches. These similar traits are not inherited from a common ancestor but instead arise through separate evolutionary processes. The form of mimicry you describe is no different.

Thanks. Yes, pretty much as I thought. The only 'come-back' is that, in Biology one can't discount something on the basis that it is unlikely, or even very unlikely. But I agree, there are limits!
Let's hope that someone will do the relevant sequencing analysis at some point in the future, which would settle the matter firmly.
Thanks again for your reply.

My pleasure!

There is always a possibility that the gene sequences responsible for the mimicked trait are similar, but its definitely not guaranteed. The sequence would most likely be similar if the two animals were of the same lineage