Discovered in 2001, the mimic octopus is a creature whose survival abilities are as unique as they are versatile. This talented cephalopod is capable of imitating several different species of creatures found in its environment, and it does so for different purposes. It imitates a crab to get close enough to catch and eat one, it imitates toxic fish to avoid being eaten itself, and it can imitate a predatory sea snake to scare off trespassers. The shape-shifting creature's conscious selection from among multiple forms is an exceptionally rare trait among animals, and one that adds a wrinkle to the more commonly expressed forms of singularly limited camouflage seen in nature. Many species exist that survive in part by resembling sticks, leaves, or other animals. Scientists have suggested that, within these species, members showing adaptive coloring or designs were overlooked by predators while the differently marked members were consumed. The survivors were then left to mate and to pass on their beneficial forms as a natural defense. The mimic octopus's intelligent use of selective disguise suggests a creative and adaptive survival mechanism, more versatile and intriguing than that arising from appearance alone.

Select the sentence in the passage that distinguishes how the mimic octopus's camouflage exceeds that of most forms found in nature.





The author would most likely agree with which of the following sentences?

(A)The mimic octopus was probably discovered only recently because of its incredible ability to camouflage itself.
(B)The mimic octopus's method of conscious and situational disguise discredits current evolutionary theory.
(C)Mimic octopuses can only imitate the forms of creatures they can see.
(D) Octopuses must be nearly as intelligent as humans.
(E)Animal mimicry throughout nature is primarily a defensive mechanism as opposed to a means of attracting food.