托福口语 Task 4

Today we're going to talk about how animals use camouflage not just to hide from predators, but also to communicate with each other. This is called 'signal camouflage.' My main point is that some animals use their camouflage patterns to send specific messages to other members of their species, while still remaining hidden from predators. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the cuttlefish. These marine animals can rapidly change their skin color and texture to blend in with the ocean floor. However, during mating season, male cuttlefish use a special display: they show a striped pattern on one side of their body to warn rival males, while keeping the other side camouflaged to avoid attracting predators. This way, they communicate aggression without becoming vulnerable. Second, think about the chameleon. While we often think of chameleons as masters of disguise, they also use color changes to signal stress or submission. For instance, a chameleon that is feeling threatened will display bright, contrasting colors to warn others, but if it wants to avoid a fight, it will show duller colors. So, camouflage isn't just about hiding—it's a versatile tool for social interaction.