The global and micro-mechanical properties of the chromatophore layer of the skin were examined to better understand how the complex system of muscles, elastic sacs, and connective tissue performs. The structural properties of the squid chromatophore layer are reported from a combined engineering and biological perspective. The chromatophore layer was dissected from live squid and the bulk mechanical properties of the layer were characterized using a bulge inflation technique. Histologically stained samples were examined with light microscopy to identify physical coupling between chromatophores and to detail the three-dimensional structure of the chromatophore organ. The interactions between chromatophores and the kinematics of chromatophore expansion and recovery are examined.
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