What is autotomy what does it do?

Autotomy is a defensive behavior observed in certain animals, where they intentionally shed a body part, such as a tail or limb, to escape from a predator. This process allows the animal to distract the predator with the detached limb while it makes a swift getaway. Autotomy can enhance the animal's chances of survival, although it may come with costs, such as impaired mobility or increased vulnerability in the future.