Abigail sent me this article from Pharyngula. It speaks of the tremoctopus. The tremoctopus, also known as the blanket octopus, has an amazing defense mechanism. If attacked, the octopus spreads its webbing behind it. This webbing breaks apart rather easily, which then gets entangled with the would-be predator. The webbing grows back much like some lizards' tails.
I could use some webbing like that myself. Then I could be a blanket wombat. All muggers, pickpockets, and bullies would end up with a faceful of my webbing instead.
Thanks for the link, Abigail. I would never have known of this beastie if it weren't for you!
Photo source: ToLWeb.org
Or watch this video to see the defense mechanism in action.
That is amazingly beautiful, to me.
ReplyDeleteYay, I'm so glad you enjoyed my cephalopod find! When I first saw it, I thought of you, Wombat.
ReplyDeleteJade: Methinks your take on beauty is... unconventional. ;) I wish you a spidery day!
YAY! Tremoctopus!! We can never have too many cheph. posts. :D I love that video. The look on those people's faces iwhen the cape begins to unfurl is priceless. The final scene of the tremocto so makes me think think, "Super-cheph." ;)
ReplyDeleteThe latest line of Transformers: Octo-Bots!
ReplyDelete--TwoDragons
I have to agree with Jade.... it's strangely graceful and beautiful. Certainly not ugly!
ReplyDeleteBut then I'm twisted...
Lorri
That is actually very beautiful. That picture doesn't do it any justice and I'm glad you posted the video.
ReplyDeleteOMG! I, I umm... don't know what to say...hmm...?
ReplyDelete