Scientists discovered that octopuses use their limbs to sample the microbiomes on the surfaces they touch.
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Scientists discovered that octopuses use their limbs to sample the microbiomes on the surfaces they touch.
By Sofia Quaglia
Sofia Quaglia earlier reported on fish that use their legs (yes, legs) to taste things.
When octopuses extend their eight arms into hidden nooks and crannies in search of a meal, they are not just feeling around in the dark for their food. They are tasting their prey, and with even more sensory sophistication than scientists had already imagined.
A mix of autonomous and top-down control manage the octopus’s limbs.
Sensory organ in male cephalopod able to detect female hormone progesterone, even if male cannot see partner
Giant octopuses may have ruled the oceans 100 million years ago, according to fossil evidence.
The eight-legged invertebrates were spotted off the British coast in their highest numbers since the 1950s, wildlife charity says
Study of fossilised beaks shows patterns of wear and suggests some ancient species were up to 19 metres long
Two divers have been left stunned after an extraordinary encounter with one of the world's largest species of octopus.
