Mimic octopus

Mimic octopus
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Cephalopoda
Order: Octopoda
Family: Octopodidae
Genus: Thaumoctopus
Norman & Hochberg, 2005[1]
Species:
T. mimicus
Binomial name
Thaumoctopus mimicus
Norman & Hochberg, 2005[1]

The mimic octopus (Thaumoctopus mimicus) is a species of octopus from the Indo-Pacific region. Like other octopuses, it uses its chromatophores to disguise itself. It is noteworthy for being able to impersonate a wide variety of other marine animals.[2] While many animals mimic either their environment or other animals to avoid predation, the mimic octopus and its close relative the wunderpus are the only ones known to actively imitate several animals in order to elude predators.[3]

  1. ^ a b Norman, M.D.; and Hochberg, F.G. (2005). "The 'mimic Octopus' (Thaumoctopus mimicus n. gen. et sp.), a new octopus from the tropical Indo-West Pacific (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae)." Molluscan Research 25: 57–70.
  2. ^ Maculay, G. (January 6, 2012). "Mimic Octopus Creature Feature - Diving with Mimics". Dive The World - Scuba Diving Vacations - Dive Travel - Diving Holidays - Liveaboards. Retrieved April 21, 2013.
  3. ^ Harmon, Katherine (February 21, 2013). "Mimic Octopus Makes Home on Great Barrier Reef". Scientific American Blog Network. Retrieved 2023-03-23.