Although octopuses are alien-like in many ways, scientists have discovered that they may have more in common with humans than meets the eye, per The Atlantic.
For one, octopuses have varying temperaments. While some can be bashful, others can be downright feisty. Some will even go as far as engaging with humans when they are around—a trait long associated with mammals, such as dogs and cats, not octopuses.
Other traits that make octopuses human-like include the fact that they have “arms,” giving them the ability to grab and open things; and organs such as eyes (which are strikingly similar to ours). A bit less obvious? According to scientists, octopuses have a memory and are quick learners. They’re constantly learning new skills, such as how to open a clam or the best way to get from one place to another.
Of all this, perhaps the most interesting parallel is that of all mollusks, octopuses have the largest, most complex nervous systems—something we humans rely on greatly. While octopuses’ nervous systems aren’t as intricate as ours are, theirs is nearly on par with the marmoset, a type of monkey. Researchers suggest that the large nervous system allows octopuses to move around more freely than mammals that have a skeleton.
For more on the octopus, read Judson’s full story here. Watch a video about how intelligent octopuses really are below.
—RealClearLife Staff
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