Which octopus species is known for impersonating up to 15 other species?

The mimic octopus is the species known for impersonating numerous other marine animals, sometimes reported as up to 15 or even 18 different species.

Its scientific name is Thaumoctopus mimicus, and it lives in shallow Indo-Pacific waters, especially sandy coastal areas and estuaries. Unlike ordinary camouflage, its mimicry combines changes in skin color, body shape, posture, and movement.

Researchers and divers have observed it imitating lionfish, sea snakes, flatfish, jellyfish, and other animals. For example, it may spread its arms to suggest a lionfish's spines or hide six arms while holding two parallel arms to resemble a sea snake. These disguises may deter predators by making the octopus appear dangerous or unappealing.

The number of imitated species varies among accounts because some behaviors are better documented than others. The key distinction is that the mimic octopus actively switches among several animal-like disguises, rather than merely blending into its surroundings.