Flamboyant Fish

The flamboyant cuttlefish (Metasepia pfefferi) gets its name from its vivid and dynamic color displays, created by specialized pigment cells called chromatophores, along with reflective iridophores and leucophores.

It flashes bright colors like yellow, red, and purple, often paired with undulating arm and fin movements, creating a striking appearance.

This display is an example of aposematic coloration, a biological warning signal used to deter predators by indicating toxicity or danger.

Unlike most cuttlefish, it is benthic, walking along the seafloor rather than swimming, further emphasizing its bold and "flamboyant" visual signals.

The cuttlefish's toxicity reinforces the effectiveness of its aposematic display.