Sparkling Clouds and Other Wild Ways Cephalopods Use Ink

Cephalopods have evolved to use ink as a defense mechanism for millions of years. Initially serving as a smokescreen, ink has diversified into various forms, including toxic clouds and decoys. The ink is produced by two glands, with its composition varying by species, sometimes containing toxins or amino acids. These adaptations help cephalopods evade predators by disorienting them or creating decoys. Deep sea cephalopods have unique adaptations, like the fire shooter squid, which uses glowing ink. Research continues to uncover the complexities of cephalopod ink and its role in their survival.

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