Meet the cuttlefish, one of the brainiest, most bizarre animals in the ocean.

This mystifying creature has many senses and abilities that are alien to us humans. For example, while the cuttlefish can’t hear, it can detect sound in the form of pressure waves traveling through the water. The unique animal can also change its coloration, shape and texture at will, mimicking floating vegetation or rocks on the seafloor.

Yet when danger looms, this relative of the octopus can jet away at great speeds, shooting out a smoke screen of ink or using its ink to create decoys of itself that sit suspended in the water.

How does the cuttlefish accomplish all this? Well, I created a Flash interactive for PBS’s NOVA that explains many of its tricks. (See below.)

You can also learn more about the cuttlefish by tuning into NOVA’s “Kings of Camouflage” on your local PBS station on Tuesday, June 22. (Check your local listings.)

Until then, take a look at select parts of cuttlefish and learn more about how this master of deception and disguise functions. Simply click on the labels below for more information.