Cool Obscure Animals
Vampire Squid, Vampyroteuthis infernalis
Its latin name literally translates as 'vampire squid from hell'. Although its creepy appearance is frankly enough to land it on this list, it is interesting in many other ways. Definately check out the video (it appears after a brief intro) or feel free to do more research.
![](http://www.succeedsocially.com/animalphotos/vampiresquid2)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3CJIKKSUpg&feature=player_embedded
Velvet Worm, Onychophora Phyla
Not quite worms, not quite arthropods, Onychophora are in a category of their own. Velvet worms are predatory and several species can immobilize their prey by shooting a glue-like substance out of glands in their heads.
![](http://www.succeedsocially.com/animalphotos/velvetworm2)
a.k.a., Walking Worm, Spitting Worm
Tripod Fish, Bathypterois grallator
Long extensions of three of this deep sea fish's fins allow it to stand on the ocean bottom where it waits for small crustaceans to drift towards it.
Chinese Giant Salamander, Andrias davidianus
It's really just a salamander, but it's the largest in the world and can grow up to around five feet in length. And that makes it cool.
Webspinners, Embioptera Order
Also known as Embiids, members of this obscure insect group are able to spin silk from structures on their front legs. The silk is used to weave tunnels and galleries on the ground in which they live.
Mimic Octopus, Thaumoctopus mimicus
By changing its texture, arm positioning, and movement, the mimic octopus is able to imitate around seventeen other animals, including lionfish, sea snakes, flatfish, and brittle stars. Wow, what more can I say?