The murky ink from cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) could help deter sharks from hunting near where people are swimming. After a team at University College Dublin created models of the olfactory systems of several species of sharks, they found that the bioluminescent cephalopod's ink might overwhelm the sharks' heightened sensitivity to odors. The findings are detailed in a study recently published in the journal G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics. "Understanding how prey species like cuttlefish have evolved to exploit specific vulnerabilities in predators like sharks enriches not only our understanding of marine ecosystems but provides inspiration for conservation tools rooted in natural processes," study co-author and biologist Colleen Lawless said in a statement. By signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.