Cuttlefish chromatophore research. Close-up of a cuttlefish embryo head and eye, showing the chromatophores (black dots) in the skin in their excited
Cuttlefish chromatophore research. Close-up of a cuttlefish embryo head and eye, showing the chromatophores (black dots) in the skin in their excited (activated) state. Some cuttlefish (order: Sepiida) can change colour according to their surroundings by dilating or contracting pigment cells called chromatophores. Rhythmic bands of colour are quickly pulsed along the cuttlefish's body and arms, possibly to mesmerise and distract its prey. This study is being carried out at the French National Museum of Natural History (Museum national d'histoire naturelle, MNHN) in Paris, France. Photographed in 2010. For the chromatophores in an unexcited state, see image C029/7039.
Size: 5604px × 3119px
Photo credit: © PASCAL GOETGHELUCK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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