memes and biology

Cephalopod lovers: What’s the world’s largest octopus? Capable of growing more than 16 ft (4.9 m) long and weighing in at over 100 lbs (45 kg), that would be the giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini)! More than 2,000 suction cups cover its eight arms, providing it with a powerful grip that makes it hard for prey like crabs, and sometimes even small sharks, to escape its clutches.

Just how giant is the giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus)? Unlike other armadillos—which can roll up to defend themselves from foes—this animal's size prevents it from hiding inside its carapace. Instead, it relies on bulk to deter predators. This South American species can reach lengths of 3.9 ft (1.2 m) and weights of more than 110 lbs (50 kg)! Primarily nocturnal, it spends much of its time in underground burrows. Its diet consists primarily of termites and ants, though it has been known to feed on small vertebrates, worms, and even carrion. 

Meet the Sunda flying lemur (Galeopterus variegatus)—which can’t fly and is not a lemur! Also known as the colugo, this tree-dwelling mammal can be found in parts of Southeast Asia. Its patagium, the membrane of skin between its neck and limbs, allows it to glide (not fly) more than 300 ft (91 m) through the air. Once considered a close relative of primates or bats, scientists now place this critter on its own branch of the evolutionary tree.