Research reveals that cuttlefish, specifically Sepia officinalis, exhibit the ability to delay gratification in a modified marshmallow test. Led by behavioral ecologist Alexandra Schnell of the University of Cambridge, the study involved a unique experiment using transparent doors with symbols to test the cuttlefish’s self-control. The results indicated that cuttlefish could wait for a preferred food reward for up to 50-130 seconds, comparable to large-brained vertebrates. The study suggests that this ability may be linked to the cuttlefish’s foraging behavior and the need to optimize food choices in their marine environment.
Source: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2020.3161