Generally, a complex, strawberry-sized animal is not associated with invisibility. However, the Hawaiian bobtail squid achieves such an effect in a most unusual and astonishing way. Participating in a symbiotic relationship with many bioluminescent bacteria, this creature is able to shield itself from predators and prey by obscuring its silhouette from those below.
This is achieved by the bacteria forming a biofilm – a layer of bacteria over the squid’s surface. The bacteria are able to luminesce, which shrouds the squid in light of the same intensity as the surrounding sea. This conceals the squid and its silhouette, so it does not appear visible to other organisms below it. With this superpower-like advantage, the squid can more effectively hunt its prey, and it returns the favour by supplying the bacteria with sugars and amino acids.
Your organisation does not have access to this article.
Sign up today to give your students the edge they need to achieve their best grades with subject expertise
Subscribe
