14 DAY TRIAL // Researchers working with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute say that, according to their investigations, a species of deep sea squid dubbed Grimalditeuthis bonplandi uses its tentacles to lure prey.
The scientists argue that, unlike other squid, these deep sea dwellers do not have very strong tentacles.
Therefore, they cannot serve to capture prey. More so since they lack suckers and hooks.
The researchers theorize that, in order to feed, these squid allow the tips of the tentacles to move through the water as if they are swimming on their own.
Check out the video above to see one such squid's tentacles “swim” with the help of fin-like membranes growing at their tips.
Shrimp and other marine animals are believed to be attracted by vibrations created by this movement. Hence their approaching the squid close enough for the latter to be able to trap them with its arms.
According to Science Daily, several other marine mammals have thus far been documented to use various body parts to attract prey and secure their next meat.