Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Photo: Ivan Samra · CC BY-NC

Flamboyant cuttlefish walk across the volcanic sand at Kal's Dream on modified arms and two bottom fins, pulsing with waves of yellow, brown, and white chromatic signals that warn predators of their potent toxicity — they are the only cephalopod known to be toxic to consume. Despite being the smallest cuttlefish in the region, they are bold predators that stalk mysid shrimp and small fish with methodical patience, using rapid camouflage change to get within striking range before deploying their extending tentacles. Their walking behavior, unusual for a cephalopod, and spectacular coloration make them one of the most sought-after macro subjects in all of Indonesia.