Biology
The Function of Color Change in Cephalopod Camouflage and Communication
Quick fact
Cuttlefish can change their skin color and pattern in as little as 200 milliseconds, and they use this ability not only to blend in with their background but also to communicate with each other—for example, males display a dramatic 'zebra' stripe pattern to court females and warn rival males.
Why this is interesting
Imagine being able to change your skin's color and pattern in the blink of an eye to disappear into your surroundings—or to flash a bold signal to a potential mate. This isn't science fiction; it's the reality for octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish. But how do they do it, and why is this ability so crucial for their survival?