Cuttlefish are among the most intelligent invertebrates, displaying impressive cognitive abilities that set them apart from many other marine animals. They possess large brains relative to their body size and are capable of advanced learning, memory retention, and problem solving.
Advanced Memory and Learning
Cuttlefish can remember details about their environment, such as what they ate, where, and when, and they use this information to optimize future foraging decisions. Remarkably, their memory remains sharp even as they age, with older individuals performing as well or better than younger ones on complex memory tasks.
Self-Control and Delayed Gratification
In scientific experiments, cuttlefish have demonstrated self-control comparable to primates by passing a version of the "marshmallow test"—opting to wait for a preferred food treat instead of settling for a lesser one immediately. This level of delayed gratification far exceeds that of many mammals and birds, with cuttlefish waiting up to two minutes for their favorite reward.
Problem Solving and Social Intelligence
Cuttlefish are highly skilled at camouflage and decision making based on predator type, and they have the ability to learn and adapt behaviors for optimal survival. They also show complex social awareness, including the capacity for group interactions, which further highlights their intelligence.
Intelligence Comparison Table
Feature| Cuttlefish| Octopus| Primates (e.g., chimpanzee)
---|---|---|---
Brain-to-body ratio| Very high 2| Very high 2| High
Memory| Excellent, even in old age 1| Excellent| Excellent
Self-control| Advanced, delayed gratification 35| Advanced| Advanced
Problem solving| Maze and puzzle solving 12| Tool use, play 2| Tool use, play,
complex jobs
Social intelligence| Group interactions 2| Mainly solitary 2| Highly social
Cuttlefish intelligence rivals that of some vertebrates, including crows and primates, making them stand out among marine creatures for their memory, learning, self-control, and social skills.
