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It’s Time for a Change
By Linda | October 8, 2008
Several species of cephalopods–the group of animals that includes octopuses, squid and cuttlefish–are skilled in the art of color change, which can be used for camouflage or to startle and warn potential predators in their undersea realm.
Click below to see a clip of a cuttlefish changing his coloration to match the seabed below.
How do they do this?
By controlling the size of specially evolved cells called chromatofores(crow-MAT-uh-fors)! Click on the video below to see what a squid’s skin looks like under a microscope as he manipulates these amazing cells.
Chromatophores are connected to the nervous system, and their size is determined by muscular contractions. The cephalopods also have extremely well developed eyes, which are believed to detect both the color and intensity of light. Using their excellent eyesight and chromatophores, cephalopods camouflage themselves by creating color patterns that closely match the underlying seafloor.
In addition to color control, many of the squid can produce light and control its intensity. Biologically produced light is called bioluminescence, and it is used for a wide variety of purposes by marine organisms. Some creatures are believed to use bioluminescence to confuse or startle predators, others may stun their prey, and some use it as a decoy to facilitate escape or as a lure to attract the unwary. Bioluminescence may also offer a means of communication in the dim midwater or twilight region of the sea.
Topics: Animal Kingdom, Nature, Science Factoids |
