“So! I was wondering if you knew anything about the Indonesian Mimic Octopus. Apparently it can mimic 15+ different species like the lion fish or a flounder for defensive purposes, but I was wondering if it would have to observe these animals to mimic them or if its an instinctive evolutionary trait, or if it’s even known. I tried looking for resources but couldn’t find anything definitive. I know octopuses are a far cry from birds but I thought it was cool and was wondering if you knew any more”
I couldn’t find anything directly relating to this either, unfortunately! According to the original paper of the description of the species, it was hypothesized that the ability to mimic certain shapes was genetic, but when to use each posture was a direct reaction to the current environment.
For example, the octopus would only use the posture resembling a highly venomous sea snake when faced with territorial damselfish - because the damselfish are commonly predated by that specific sea snake.
Photo from NCBI
It really isn’t that different from other cephalopods and their crypsis - most octopuses mimic surroundings, in terms of changing skin colour, texture, and form - so there is a genetic basis for it. The mimic octopus lives in a predator-heavy, open habitat, however, so there was likely strong selective pressure for an alternative to hiding as rocks or coral. Those who managed to resemble local venomous species were likely way more effective than those who didn’t.
They’re pretty cool though, and if anyone else knows more about them, I’d love to hear it!