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Related Experiment Videos

Dynamic mimicry in an Indo-Malayan octopus.

M D Norman1, J Finn, T Tregenza

  • 1Museum Victoria, G.P.O. Box 666E, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia. mnorman@unimelb.edu.au

Proceedings. Biological Sciences
|August 28, 2001
PubMed
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A newly discovered long-armed octopus in Indonesia exhibits dynamic mimicry, imitating venomous sea creatures during daylight foraging. This behavior helps the mimic octopus avoid predators by presenting a varied defense against common threats.

Area of Science:

  • Marine Biology
  • Zoology
  • Animal Behavior

Background:

  • A novel species of long-armed octopus was discovered in Indonesia.
  • The octopus, nicknamed the 'mimic octopus', was observed during research dives in Sulawesi and Bali.
  • Initial observations indicate unique mimicry behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To document and describe a new species of long-armed octopus.
  • To investigate the mimicry behaviors of this newly discovered octopus species.
  • To understand the ecological implications of its mimicry strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Conducting research dives over 24-hour periods in Indonesia (Sulawesi and Bali).
  • Filming and observing nine individuals of the new octopus species.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Documenting foraging behaviors, postures, and body patterns during daylight hours.

    • Main Results:

    • A new species of long-armed octopus, the 'mimic octopus', was filmed and identified.
    • The octopus engages in 'dynamic mimicry', impersonating venomous animals to deter predators.
    • This mimicry occurs during daylight foraging on sandy substrates, in the presence of pelagic fish.
    • Observed mimicry involves a repertoire of postures and body patterns, adaptable to perceived threats.

    Conclusions:

    • The 'mimic octopus' employs dynamic mimicry, a flexible strategy to avoid predators.
    • This behavior offers advantages over genetic polymorphism by allowing a wider range of impersonations.
    • The octopus appears to make strategic decisions about which mimicry to employ based on environmental cues and threats.