Answer:
The cuttlefish displays a type of mimicry called batesian mimicry. In batesian mimicry, a harmless species imitates the appearance of a harmful or toxic species to deter predators. In this case, the cuttlefish mimics the appearance of certain toxic or venomous animals, such as lionfish or sea snakes, to protect itself from predation.
The cuttlefish achieves this mimicry through its ability to rapidly change its skin color and texture. It can adjust its skin patterns and colors to match those of the mimicked species, making it difficult for predators to distinguish between the harmless cuttlefish and the potentially dangerous model species.
By mimicking the appearance of a harmful species, the cuttlefish effectively reduces the likelihood of being attacked by predators that associate the model species with danger. This is an advantageous adaptation that allows the cuttlefish to survive and avoid predation in its environment.
It is important to note that the cuttlefish does not display mullerian mimicry. Mullerian mimicry occurs when multiple harmful or toxic species evolve to resemble each other, thereby increasing the overall effectiveness of their warning signals. In the case of the cuttlefish, it mimics the appearance of a single species, rather than multiple species.
In summary, the cuttlefish displays batesian mimicry by imitating the appearance of harmful or toxic species to deter predators. Its ability to change its skin color and texture allows it to closely resemble these model species and reduce the risk of predation.
Step-by-step explanation: