Dec 16, 2009: Octopus Uses Coconut as Shelter

Elspode · 12-15-2009, 06:21 PM

You've gotta be really quick if you're going to post an IOTD here. This is the first I've done since the option for anyone to post them was opened up.

We know octopi are smart. We've already got a video somewhere on here of one opening a jar. But now it seems we're finding out that they snag and use coconuts as shelter.

This *is* a pretty cool revelation, and it is being cited as a unique example of tool use by an invertebrate. Now, I'm no taxonomist, but...what about hermit crabs and the shells they glom onto? Isn't this basically the same behavior?

Nevertheless, it is an interesting view of a critter that we assume to be inferior to ourselves.

Fun video here.

12-15-2009, 06:21 PM	#1
Elspode When Do I Get Virtual Unreality? Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Raytown, Missouri Posts: 12,719	Dec 16, 2009: Octopus Uses Coconut as Shelter You've gotta be really quick if you're going to post an IOTD here. This is the first I've done since the option for anyone to post them was opened up. We know octopi are smart. We've already got a video somewhere on here of one opening a jar. But now it seems we're finding out that they snag and use coconuts as shelter. This is a pretty cool revelation, and it is being cited as a unique example of tool use by an invertebrate. Now, I'm no taxonomist, but...what about hermit crabs and the shells they glom onto? Isn't this basically the same behavior? Nevertheless, it is an interesting view of a critter that we assume to be inferior to ourselves. Fun video here. Attached Images __________________ "To those of you who are wearing ties, I think my dad would appreciate it if you took them off." - Robert Moog Last edited by xoxoxoBruce; 12-16-2009 at 12:06 AM. Reason: format

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