This female-looking cuttlefish has the same black blotches as a real female. If the male leaves to fight other males, this individual approaches the female and copulates with her, usually with success. However, in the absence of rivals, these 'mimicking female' males display the phenotype of a mature male.
When a male cuttlefish leaves to compete against other males, a female-like individual nearby will approach and mate with the female. This behavior is successful. Conversely, if there are no competitors around, these 'female imitations' display the traits of mature males.