Anatomy of a Cuttlefish
- By Rima Chaddha
- Posted 04.03.07
- NOVA
Cuttlefish have abilities and senses that are alien to us humans. They can change their appearance in a split second, mimicking floating vegetation or rocks on the seafloor. When danger looms, cuttlefish also can jet away at great speeds, shooting out a smoke screen of ink. How do they accomplish all this? Here, examine the anatomy of this octopus relative and learn how this master of disguise performs its tricks.
Blue-green blood? Three hearts? Explore what sets cuttlefish apart from other animals.
Credits
Images
- (cuttlefish, arm & tentacle, beak, cuttlebone, eye, fin, gill, ink sac, mantle, mating, skin)
- © James B. Wood/ www.thecephalopodpage.org
- (brain/lateral lines)
- ©1988/2007 Bernd U. Budelmann, University of Texas Medical Branc
Related Links
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How Smart Is An Octopus?
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Mating Trickery
Meet a menagerie of fish, insects, reptiles, and mammals with wily and outrageous sexual strategies.
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Spineless Smarts
Animal behaviorist Jean Boal ponders what cephalopods might teach us about our own intellect.
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