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Research conducted at the University of Bristol reveals how cuttlefish skillfully utilize dynamic skin displays to stealthily approach their prey, avoiding detection in critical moments.
For many pursuit predators, maintaining camouflage while in motion is a significant challenge. A recent study published in Science Advances highlights a previously undocumented form of motion camouflage exhibited by broadclub cuttlefish, which create dark stripes that travel downwards across their bodies to mask their hunting actions.
Lead researcher Dr. Matteo Santon from the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Bristol remarked that camouflage has traditionally been associated with prey adaptations, primarily focused on stillness as motion typically disrupts effective concealment.
Dr. Martin How, the study’s senior author, elaborated on the unique attributes of cuttlefish: “These creatures utilize stealth to approach their targets. Their remarkable ability to change color rapidly provides them with greater flexibility in maintaining camouflage while on the move compared to other species.”
By analyzing the visual perspective of prey, specifically crabs, the researchers demonstrated that the passing-stripe display effectively conceals the predator during its hunt. Their results indicate that the prey’s visual perception may be overwhelmed by the dynamic motion of the stripes, hindering their ability to detect the approaching cuttlefish.
Dr. Santon pointed out that although this dynamic display appears conspicuous to human observers, it cleverly exploits strong motion cues that arise from the rhythmic movement of the stripes, thereby tricking the prey.
Additionally, this species is capable of producing at least three other intricate hunting displays, showcasing an impressive array of adaptations aimed at deceiving prey.
In his future research, Dr. Santon intends to explore the mechanisms behind these other displays and investigate the criteria that influence cuttlefish in selecting specific hunting strategies.
Reflecting on a memorable encounter, he noted, “Witnessing this species hunt in its natural habitat for the first time was truly enchanting. Observing the cuttlefish utilize the passing-stripe display felt akin to watching a master illusionist perform.”
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