Which cephalopod is known for changing color and texture to mimic a sea snake?

The mimic octopus is known for changing color and texture to mimic a sea snake.

Thaumoctopus mimicus can alter its posture, movement, and skin pattern to resemble several other animals. When it imitates a banded sea snake, it may extend some arms from a burrow and hold them in a striped, undulating arrangement. The display can deter predators or make the octopus appear dangerous.

The species was first described scientifically in 1998 from Indonesia and is found in sandy, muddy habitats of the tropical Indo-Pacific. It also has been reported mimicking lionfish, flatfish, and other venomous or unappealing animals. These imitations are examples of behavioral mimicry rather than fixed body markings.

Like other octopuses, the mimic octopus controls chromatophores and other skin structures to change appearance. It is not a sea snake and does not possess snake venom. Its remarkable disguises combine rapid skin changes with flexible arms and highly controlled swimming or crawling movements.