5 facts
This remarkable cephalopod doesn't just change color; it physically contorts its body and changes its swimming style to imitate various venomous creatures like sea snakes, lionfish, and flatfish. This incredible mimicry helps it deter predators and hunt prey in the diverse Indo-Pacific waters.
Each eye can measure up to 27 centimeters (11 inches) in diameter, about the size of a soccer ball. These enormous eyes help them detect prey and predators in the dimly lit depths of the Southern Ocean, an incredible feat of evolution.
Two hearts pump blood through the gills, while the third circulates it to the rest of the body. Their copper-based blood, hemocyanin, is more efficient at transporting oxygen in cold, low-oxygen environments, giving it a distinctive blue hue.
When threatened, this deep-sea cephalopod releases a cloud of sticky, glowing mucus from the tips of its arms. This dazzling distraction allows the squid to escape into the dark abyss, confusing potential predators in its lightless environment.
This master of disguise changes its skin color, texture, and body shape to convincingly imitate venomous sea snakes, lionfish, jellyfish, and even flatfish. This remarkable ability helps it deter predators or ambush unsuspecting prey.