Like all cephalopods, the skin of the Northern Taiga Octopus contains many chromatophores (colour cells) that the animal can control at will. In addition, it has the ability to change the texture of its skin at will. This affords the octopus superlative camouflage abilities in any terrain. Observations of this species have recorded that it is capable of mimicking even complex colours and textures that might be found in its harsh northern habitat. Females are capable of becoming nearly pure white, allowing them to hunt in snow-covered fields.