Ink cloud distracts predators: octopus

1 of 1 Octopus vulgaris / Theasereje / License

The ink cloud emitted by an octopus when threatened aids escape because it resembles the shape of the octopus.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Nontoxic inks and dyes Shape-based jets that control shape of output

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"When their speed alone is not enough for safety, [cuttlefish] squirt a cloud of dense, dark coloured ink that is synthesised in their bodies. This ink surprises their predators for a few seconds, which is usually enough for them to escape." (Yahya 2002:104)

"Sometimes the ink cloud itself resembles the blobby shape of an octopus and acts as a decoy, allowing the octopus to escape while the predator eyes the blob." (Crump 2005:109)

About the inspiring organism

Octopoda
Octopoda

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Shape-based jets that control shape of output. Nontoxic inks and dyes.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Ink-jet printing, liquid extrusion technologies, paper, textiles

References

Crump, M. 2005. Headless Males Make Great Lovers & Other Unusual Natural Histories. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press. 199 p.

Ink cloud distracts predators: octopus

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