Who wants to cuttle?

Who wants to cuttle?

Today’s cephalopod is a common cuttlefish! We are so excited introduce this little invertebrate to you!

• Common cuttlefish live off the west coast of Britain to the Baltic Sea to South Africa.
• Cuttlefish are carnivores. They eat shrimp, copepods and small fish.
• IUCN Conservation status: least concern.
• They grow to about 15 inches and weigh up to 8 lbs.
• Cuttlefish have one long fin around their body that runs behind the head.
• Cuttlefish, like squid have 8 arms with suckers and two tentacles to grab prey.
• Cuttlefish are able to change their color and texture in seconds. They are masters in camouflage.
• Cuttlefish have a shell inside their body which is called the cuttlebone. It helps the cuttlefish with buoyancy.
• They can use jet propulsion to help them get away quickly. They expel water in from their body to move fast!
• Cuttlefish can also release ink to deter predators.

Cuttlefish are intelligent creatures. We have met several over the years. They are so amazing to watch. Their ability to change color and texture is fascinating.