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Cuttlefish is like a mixture of octopus and squid. They are smaller than an octopus, but have eight tentacles, like an octopus. They can also change color. and pattern to match their surroundings! Let’s take a look at 10 facts about cuttlefish that are simply impressive!
1. Cuttlefish are smart! They can learn to postpone gratification!
Cuttlefish have the largest brain of all invertebrates. But does this mean that they are also smart? The 1972 Stanford marshmallow experiment tested whether children would take one marshmallow right away or wait and get two marshmallows. Children were assessed over time and found that children who waited (delayed gratification) received higher SAT scores, better social skills, and lower levels of substance abuse. Similar research has been applied to animals, but can animals learn to expect better rewards? Yes! Research on cuttlefish shows that cuttlefish can expect better rewards. The cuttlefish were placed in a tank with two doors. The first door opened and a crab was offered. A minute later the second door opened and a shrimp (their favorite) was offered. The cuttlefish was steadily waiting for the shrimp!
2. Masters of disguise! Cuttlefish can change color, pattern and shape!
If you’ve watched videos of cuttlefish on the hunt, you might see them change color, pattern, and shape. They moved their tentacles in a random position, mimicking coral formations next to them. Fish passing by have no chance when you see how much they change to look like their surroundings. They also use this camouflage to hide from predators. They can change color in a millisecond to blend in and avoid harm.
3. Smoke screen! The cuttlefish can release a cloud of ink to create a blackout and leave.
Like squid, cuttlefish can spray ink and create a smokescreen for them to try to escape. Cuttlefish use a jet propulsion system to swim and reach speeds of up to 40 km / h. Ink gives cuttlefish a head start and the ability to run and hide. Making ink requires energy, so they don’t abuse this defense mechanism; camouflage is still their best defense.
4. Get ready, aim, fire! Cuttlefish have two tentacles that they can shoot to catch their prey!
Cuttlefish have eight arms, like an octopus, so it’s amazing when you first see one hunt. Two more tentacles appear out of nowhere and catch prey in no time! Cuttlefish have two additional tentacles with suction cups at the ends, which they use to grab prey. To watch a video of the cuttlefish in action, be sure to watch it in slow motion (video embedded below)!
5. Cuttlefish ink was used for drawing and writing.
The ancient Greeks and Romans used Sepia cuttlefish ink as writing and painting ink. The ink itself is called sepia ink, a deep dark brown color. Although mostly used up to 19th century, it is still used by some artists.
6. Could you find cuttlefish ink at your Walgreens?
Scientists are fascinated by the properties of cuttlefish ink, and researchers continue to evaluate its uses. In one study, researchers are looking at several ways to use ink. Scientists and doctors are constantly looking for new medicines and better antioxidants. Cuttlefish ink has promising antimicrobial properties. An enzyme found in squid ink is being investigated for use in blood pressure medications. The enzyme dilates blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure. Since the properties of cuttlefish ink are similar, they can have a similar effect.
7. Cuttlefish have green blood.
They are not aliens (what can we prove … for now) but they have green blood. Their blood looks blue-green due to hemocyanin. Humans use hemoglobin to carry oxygen, while cuttlefish use hemocyanin to scatter oxygen. This is what gives the blood a blue-green tint!
eight. Spring break on the beach! Some cuttlefish congregate at specific locations during mating.
Off the coast of Whyalla, Australia, thousands of giant cuttlefish gather for the mating season. This happens every year from May to August (so more like a summer vacation!). Cuttlefish exhibit intricate mating rituals, including changing color, pattern, and shape. There are more males in this area than females, so they have to give their best. Apparently, the zebra’s flashing stripes are what “it” is for female cuttlefish, and can be seen by males hoping to win mating rights. Smaller male cuttlefish may try to look like female cuttlefish in order to sneak up on an unsuspecting female and mate. At this time, people are allowed to enter the water to watch the spectacular performances!
nine. Hey, where’s my food? Captive cuttlefish are often in the mood if not entertained.
A psychologist at the University of Cambridge was working with cuttlefish and noticed how they would spray on it if she did not give them food or was in no hurry with treats. Other researchers have found similar behavior. Another researcher found that cuttlefish have learned to associate feeding with humans. Cuttlefish are more likely to eat food if it appears to be alive, so the person will wiggle it to make it look alive. The cuttlefish began to rush at any person who approached the aquarium while waiting for food!
ten. Cuttlefish live only a year or two!
Despite all the crazy devices and big brains, cuttlefish have a lifespan of a year or two. Giant cuttlefish live slightly longer – from two to four years. Cuttlefish are hunted by fish, sharks, seals and dolphins. They also need to beware of other cuttlefish. People catch cuttlefish for ink and food. Ink is used as a flavoring agent in many Asian dishes. But humans are not the main cause of death. Many octopus-like cuttlefish die shortly after mating.
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