The mimic octopus, found in shallow waters of Indonesia, can impersonate the appearance and movements of various other marine species, including flatfish, lionfish, and sea snakes. Researchers have observed individual mimic octopuses selecting different impersonations based on which predators are present in the immediate environment.
Based on the passage, which inference is most strongly supported about the mimic octopus?
- A
Its impersonations are selected randomly
- B
It can only impersonate a single species at a time
- C
It impersonates predators only when no prey is available
- Dcheck_circle
Its mimicry behavior responds to local conditions rather than following a fixed routine
Explanation
Selecting impersonations based on which predators are present supports B. A contradicts selection; C contradicts the variety listed; D is unsupported.