How Octopuses Became the Ocean’s Smartest Invertebrates — 25 Problem-Solving Abilities

11. Deterring Predators with Ink Clouds

When faced with danger, octopuses skillfully release ink clouds to confuse or repel predators. According to the Smithsonian Ocean Portal, these clever creatures can adapt their inking technique—sometimes creating a decoy “smoke screen,” other times releasing chemicals that irritate attackers’ senses.
This strategic use of ink showcases the octopus’s ability to assess threats and select the most effective defensive response, further underscoring their flexible problem-solving nature.