Octopuses use coconut shells as portable shelters

This is the first time that we have seen invertebrates using tools. Octupuses have been filmed using these tools for their protection. This is remarkable behaviour. There has to be some cognitive intelligence in Octopus because it not only uses the tool to hide from threats, it also carries it away for future use.

See the video link below

Octopuses have been observed carrying coconut shells in what researchers claim is the first recorded example of tool use in invertebrates.

veined octopuses, Amphioctopus marginatus, have been filmed picking up coconut halves from the seabed to use as hiding places when they feel threatened.

behaviour qualifies as tool use for a number of reasons. First, the shells are not permanent homes like those occupied by hermit crabs, but are carried around for future use.

Video

Source: www.newscientist.com...



[edit on 14-12-2009 by sunny_2008ny]