This octopus can mimic many dangerous sea creatures. Here’s how its bizarre trick works

The mimic octopus, Thaumoctopus mimicus, is a remarkable creature found in tropical Indo-West Pacific waters. Known for its ability to change colour, body shape, posture and movements, this octopus can imitate other marine animals, including flatfish, lionfish and sea snakes. The mimic octopus does not simply change colour to blend in with its surroundings; its body manipulation and behavioural changes make it stand out from simple camouflage.

Its flexible arms can be arranged to alter its body outline, while its skin can change colour and pattern. Additionally, the octopus can adjust its posture and swimming movements to create the impression of another animal, a form known as dynamic mimicry. This behaviour is thought to serve as a defence mechanism, helping the octopus deter potential predators.

One of the most well-known examples of this mimicry is when the octopus assumes a posture and movement pattern resembling a banded sea snake. This could give predators pause before attacking, especially considering some of the animals the octopus imitates can be dangerous. However, it is important to note that while this mimicry is believed to help the octopus avoid predators, there is no conclusive evidence proving that each disguise is effective in every situation.

The mimic octopus seemingly chooses its disguise based on the threat, but the exact process of decision-making is not fully understood.

Scientists suspect the octopus selects a particular form depending on the situation, but the exact thought process behind this decision remains a mystery. What we do know is that the octopus can effectively coordinate its arms, skin, posture, and movements to produce remarkably different appearances, even though it is not physically transforming into the animals it imitates.