1. Based on the data table (see below), what is the most common method used to change color?
Chromatophores.
2. What method is responsible for the metallic rings in the deadly blue ringed octopus?
Iridophores.
3. Write a summary of what you have learned by viewing these photographic images of cephalopods. Include the four waysin which cephalopods display color.
It appears to me that the most commonly used method is chromatophores. Chromatophores are small disks of color, which are expanded and contracted by muscles to create patterns. In many cases, they are connected directly to nerves, which trigger them, allowing the cephalopod to change color very rapidly.
Iridophores are the next most common. Iridophores are stacks of platelets that reflect light, and are often used to conceal organs, and to cover chromatophores to hide color. They emit irridescent greens, blues, and silvers.
Leucophores are not as common, based off of the data table. Leucophores reflect light, allowing an animal to conceal itself better. They are flat, branching cells. They typically reflect white or blue light.
The rarest by far are Photophores, which are bioluminescent cells, or small sacs with bioluminescent bacteria. Bioluminescence is a chemically created emission of light. Photophores are useful for concealment in deep ocean environments. Typically, in a deep ocean environment, they would produce a bluish color.
Cephalopods can use a combination of these methods, and can also change their texture.
DATA TABLE:
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