biology

Why Do Cuttlefish Have Blue Blood?

💡 The Answer

  • Cuttlefish have blue blood due to a protein called hemocyanin. This protein contains copper instead of iron.
  • Hemocyanin transports oxygen in their bloodstream. It functions similarly to hemoglobin in humans.
  • The copper-based molecule gives their blood a blue color when oxygenated. This is a key difference from mammals.
  • This adaptation works well in cold and low-oxygen environments. It helps them survive deep or challenging waters.

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