Scientists discovered a unique mutation in the ribosomal RNA of certain octopuses that may explain their high intelligence. Published in Current Biology, the study reveals that this variation allows for extreme protein accuracy, a feature never before seen in other animals. The discovery was made while studying the California two-spot octopus by researchers including Richard Han and Nicholas Bellono at Harvard Medical School.

The team found an unexpected gap in the rRNA that splits a fragment usually found as one piece in other creatures. When inserted into Escherichia coli bacteria, the break doubled protein production accuracy. This adaptation appears only in incirrates, shallow-water octopuses with expanded nervous systems and complex behaviors. In contrast, cirrates, such as the dumbo octopus, and squids lack this mutation.

This genetic quirk likely supported the rapid evolution of large, distributed nervous systems in shallow-water species facing higher competition. By preventing protein misfolding, which is harmful to long-lived neurons, the mutation helps these brains function effectively. Study co-author Amy Lee noted the surprise that such a conserved cellular machine could undergo evolutionary changes impacting new innovations.