Animal Profiles
Molluscs

Cuttlefish

Sepiida

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Cuttlefish are shell-bearing cephalopods with remarkable camouflage. This account describes the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) of the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Sepia officinalis, the representative described in this account.

Sepia officinalis, the representative described in this account.

Diego Delso · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Location
Common cuttlefish use coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms.
Habitat
Coast
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Fish and crustaceans are important foods.

Classification

Common name
Cuttlefish
Browse group
Molluscs
Scientific name or taxon
Sepiida
Taxon rank
order
Order
Sepiida
Source classification
Cephalopoda

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • It has an internal cuttlebone.
  • Two feeding tentacles capture prey.
  • Its skin can change colour rapidly.

Habitat and range

Common cuttlefish use coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms. They may move between shallower breeding areas and deeper seasonal habitats, often hiding against or within the seabed.

Appearance and adaptations

An internal cuttlebone supports the body and helps control buoyancy. Arms surround the mouth, while two longer feeding tentacles can extend rapidly towards prey.

Diet and behaviour

Fish and crustaceans are important foods. Skin colour and texture can change quickly as a cuttlefish hunts or signals. Undulating fins aid movement, and a siphon can provide rapid jet propulsion.

Sources

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