Have you ever wondered if animals have only one brain, like humans? Some creatures possess multiple brains, challenging our assumptions about neurological complexity. So what creature needs 32 brains?
A list of multi-brained creatures:
Squid (3 brains):
One for overall body control and two dedicated to their sophisticated eyes, which consume a significant portion of their brainpower, around 80%, for processing visual information.
Cockroaches (2 brains):
One in the head and another near the abdomen. This dual-brain setup allows them to keep moving for a short time, even after decapitation.
Bumblebees (3 brains):
Three brains, each controlling a different body part, aid them in tasks like recognising flowers and navigating pollination.
Slugs (3 brains):
For storing memories and patterns.
Snails (Up to 6 brains):
Mosquitoes (3 brains):
Their intelligence, though limited, allows them to learn to avoid predators, find food and water through smell, and even recognise human scents.
Octopi (9 brains):
This arrangement enables individual arm movement and contributes to their problem-solving abilities.
Silkworms (11 brains):
To remember and learn information rather than relying solely on instincts.
Leeches (32 brains):
Aiding in faster decision-making or serving functions similar to nerves in other animals.
So, if you are interested in learning more, check out these images of animal brains.
Resources for Teachers and Families
Download our FREE lesson plans and slides about Extinction and Biomimicry, themes in our stories.
For even more exploration of the natural world, tune in to our “Stories, Science, and Secrets” podcast for kids. Join Matthew, Elaine, Steve Punt and special guests, as we delve into the fascinating world of biomimicry and the inspiring ways science learns from nature’s genius.