In two related studies, researchers describe huge chromosomal rearrangements and about 500 novel gene clusters in the octopus, squid, and cuttlefish genomes, which they say could help explain how they evolved their extraordinary brains.

Octopuses were around 82 million years earlier than scientists previously thought—and had two extra limbs at the time.

The size and complexity of cephalopod brain structures differ depending on the habitats the creatures occupy, a study finds.

The cephalopods resisted temptation for up to 130 seconds to earn their favorite food, hinting at sophisticated cognitive abilities such as planning for the future.

The unusual cephalopod was spotted on a recent underwater research expedition.

The cephalopods use several strategies to manipulate light and produce their colorful patterns.

The baby cephalopod looks and behaves like an adult from the moment it emerges from the egg.

The cephalopod’s unique ability to disguise itself relies on a single motor nerve exclusively dedicated to skin tension and papillary control.

As it matures, this chromatophore-clad pyjama squid (Sepioloidea lineolata) hatchling will learn to use the color-changing cells that adorn its body to alter its appearance.

Octopus, cuttlefish, and squid extensively edit messenger RNAs in an evolutionarily conserved process. 

What researchers are learning as they sequence, map, and decode species’ genomes

Squid, cuttlefish, and octopuses possess vision machinery in their skin.

Polymer changes color and texture in response to remote signals. 

Deep-sea octopus has the longest-known brooding period known for any animal species.

Researchers uncover a self-recognition mechanism that prevents octopus limbs from becoming entangled, despite their powerful suction.

To control their color displays, squid fine-tune the optical properties of light-reflecting cells by rapidly expelling and imbibing water across a tightly pleated membrane

A color-changing machine mimics the rubbery body and flexible movements of octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish.

A roundup of recent studies in behavior research