Incredible video shows octopus changing color while hunting in the Red Sea

Incredible video shows octopus changing color while hunting in the Red Sea

It's a well-known fact that many animals change color in a bid to better fit into their environment. Whether this is done to disguise themselves from predators or to sneak up on their prey, the most famous color-changing animal is the chameleon.

This function is caused by color-changing cells called chromatophore, which are full of pigment that can be manipulated to suit any environment. However, rarely do we see this incredible feat of nature in action.

But now, incredible footage of an octopus changing color has emerged online: 

The above footage was filmed in the Red Sea by a Czech holidaymaker.

Squid and octopuses which have the ability to change color are known as cephalopods - defined as mollusks with their arms attached to their heads - and while they typically change color to hide, it's a biological feature that they also use to stand out.

As if all that wasn't already fascinating enough, cephalopods can also use their color-changing abilities to communicate with each other. A much more groovy way of expressing yourself than us humans who, at most, turn red with anger!

An octopus. Credit: PA Images

If you're a male Caribbean reef squid and you turn red, it means that you're looking to attract a leading lady into your life. Whereas if you turn white - a color us humans don't find offensive in the slightest - it means you're warding off other male octopuses!

What's more is that these squid can split their color down the middle, meaning that they can simultaneously use their appearance to attract females and repel males.

Needless to say, because of their incredible color-changing abilities, cephalopods are sometimes known as the chameleons of the sea.

In other octopus news, a woman recently put an octopus on her face, only to have the animal inject her with poisonous venom.