5 ways cephalopods challenge our understanding of evolution

Cephalopods such as octopuses and squid may seem like the closest thing to alien life here on Earth, but studies on them could have far-reaching implications for other creatures.

Living creatures, including humans, have the capability to alter messages from DNA in a process called RNA editing. For most animals, it's not seen as very important.

Octopuses use RNA editing to greater effect, like letting them live in cold water. In exchange, they're less likely to make long-term adaptations.

The finding has scientists wondering if RNA editing in nature is more important than previously realized.

MDMA is well-known as both a party drug and a potential therapeutic for PTSD and anxiety. It works in part by increasing the neurotransmitter serotonin.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University gave MDMA to octopuses — not to party, but to study them — and found that it made the sea creatures more sociable.

Evidence of sociability in invertebrates suggests they're capable of something closer to emotion than we thought.

Cephalopods have extremely complex brains. They have more neurons than the perennial scientific subject, the rat.

Researchers from the University of Queensland found that squid have about as many neurons as dogs.

Self-control separates humans from most other animals, allowing us to put off short-term desires for long-term benefits.

Understanding the origin of self-control could help researchers unlock the evolution of intelligence.

Pain plays an important role in shaping vertebrates' behavior, teaching them what situations to avoid for their own good.

Further study could explain the evolution of pain, and expand our understanding of which animals experience it.