Scientists Now Know How Squid 'Exquisitely Optimized' Camouflage in Shimmery Shallows Opalescent inshore squid ( Doryteuthis opalescens) are some of the most sophisticated shapeshifters on Earth. These curious cephalopods are cloaked in a special skin that can be precisely tuned to a kaleidoscope of colors.
Scientists have long been fascinated by this squid's remarkable camouflage and communication. New research has brought us even closer to figuring out how they can pull off such an eclectic wardrobe that allows them to hunt near the brightness of the shore, slip by predators unseen, or even evade aggressive suitors by flashing a pair of fake testes.