Reflective Light Modulation by Cephalopods in Shallow Nearshore Habitats
Abstract
Camouflage mechanisms are not well known despite the general misconception that they are; moreover, quantification of camouflage (especially of opaque organisms) is particularly wanting. We have three objectives: (1) Acquire imagery (camouflaged animals and their backgrounds) and corresponding irradiance data from coral reef and temperate rock reef environments. (2) Perform image analyses to quantify the degree of crypsis. (3) Construct a comparative digital photographic library of shallow-water marine animals in the camouflage categories of Uniform, Mottle and Disruptive. The central focus is on octopus, cuttlefish and squid because they have the most diverse and changeable camouflage patterns known in biology. Fish and insects are studied comparatively.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA549873
Entities
People
- Kenneth G. Foote
- Roger T. Hanlon
Organizations
- Marine Biological Laboratory