Sepiolidae
Sepiolidae is a family of small, squid-like cephalopods commonly known as bobtail squid or bottletail squid. These fascinating creatures are found in coastal waters worldwide, often in shallow, sandy or muddy habitats. Sepiolidae are characterized by their distinctive body shape, resembling a miniature squid with a short, bulbous mantle and a pair of prominent fins.
Common Names
Sepiolidae are commonly known as bobtail squid or bottletail squid due to their short, bulbous mantle. Other names used include pygmy squid and stubby squid.
Characteristics
Sepiolidae are characterized by the following features:
- Short, bulbous mantle: Their mantle is significantly shorter than their arms and is often wider than it is long.
- Prominent fins: Sepiolidae possess two prominent fins located near the end of their mantle, which they use for swimming and maneuvering.
- Eight arms and two tentacles: Like other cephalopods, Sepiolidae have eight arms and two longer tentacles. Their arms are covered in suckers, while their tentacles have specialized clubs for capturing prey.
- Chromatophores: Sepiolidae possess chromatophores, which are specialized pigment cells that allow them to rapidly change their skin color and patterns for camouflage or communication.
- Internal shell: Most sepiolidae possess a small, internal shell (gladius) for structural support.
- Size: Sepiolidae are generally small, with most species ranging from 1 to 10 cm in length.
Environments
Sepiolidae are found in coastal waters around the world, primarily in shallow, sandy or muddy habitats. They are often found buried in the sediment during the day, emerging at night to hunt for prey. Some species are known to live in association with seagrass beds or coral reefs.
References
Sepiolidae on Wikipedia
Sepiolidae on the World Register of Marine Species
Sepiolidae on Tree of Life