James RickardSay hello to the cuttlefish
June 25th 2010 01:35
I was watching TV the other day and came across a fish I had heard of but, never knew much about--the cuttlefish.
Cuttlefish are sea-going animals related to octopi and squid and lack a hard shell over their body. The average angler will probably say something like, "The ocean? Lotta difference between that and the pond out back."
I can't deny that but, I think you'll agree, after seeing these videos, that cuttlefish are some of the most interesting creatures you'll ever find.
The slight promo mentioned at the end of the video got me start on this. I was lucky enough to see the whole program!
The cuttlefish is, I think, one of the most incredible creatures in our oceans because it can actually change its shape to the point of taking on surrounding appearances as well as basic camouflage. Here's a very quick video illustrating this ability.
Cuttlefish are sea-going animals related to octopi and squid and lack a hard shell over their body. The average angler will probably say something like, "The ocean? Lotta difference between that and the pond out back."
I can't deny that but, I think you'll agree, after seeing these videos, that cuttlefish are some of the most interesting creatures you'll ever find.
The slight promo mentioned at the end of the video got me start on this. I was lucky enough to see the whole program!
The cuttlefish is, I think, one of the most incredible creatures in our oceans because it can actually change its shape to the point of taking on surrounding appearances as well as basic camouflage. Here's a very quick video illustrating this ability.
The strobing effect in the video is not a play of light and shadow or something reflected in the water. This is actually part of the cuttlefish's camouflage. To fully appreciate this ability, one must realize the 20 million chromatic cells mentioned in the video are controlled by muscular contractions. Just like a common TV, the cuttlefish's pigmentation is made up of just three basic colors. Color intensity, hue, etc. are regulated as muscles are contracted or stretched to enlarge or contract the cells!
This talent goes one step further because the cuttlefish has the ability to mimic its surroundings. Here's a quick example of that ability.
Found in warm waters, especially Asia and Australia, cuttlefish are usually around three feet long or just under a meter. However the uniqueness of this animal is further exemplified by the Flamboyant Cuttlefish which is only a few inches long and walks, rather than swims, along the ocean floor. Despite their size, you can see this small creature changes its appearance the same as the larger species--and just as quickly!
Maybe you've eaten cuttlefish. The next time you're chowing down, here are a few more facts to think about--cuttlefish have three hearts, green blood, and yes, they squirt "ink" just like squid and octopi!
This talent goes one step further because the cuttlefish has the ability to mimic its surroundings. Here's a quick example of that ability.
Found in warm waters, especially Asia and Australia, cuttlefish are usually around three feet long or just under a meter. However the uniqueness of this animal is further exemplified by the Flamboyant Cuttlefish which is only a few inches long and walks, rather than swims, along the ocean floor. Despite their size, you can see this small creature changes its appearance the same as the larger species--and just as quickly!
Maybe you've eaten cuttlefish. The next time you're chowing down, here are a few more facts to think about--cuttlefish have three hearts, green blood, and yes, they squirt "ink" just like squid and octopi!
Remember to take the hooks outta yer pocket before ya sit down!
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