The specialized arm that male octopuses use for mating is also a sensory organ that can detect the ovarian hormone progesterone, according to a recent Science study.

The researchers say the dual-purpose organ offers an example of how sensory adaptations may shape reproductive behavior in ways that can contribute to speciation.

Octopuses use the same system for sensing food or a mate, which has implications for speciation.

Anna Di Cosmo Authors Info & Affiliations

Science

Vol 392, Issue 6793