Sepioloidea
Sepioloidea is a superfamily of cephalopods that includes cuttlefish, bobtail squid, and pygmy squid. They are characterized by their distinctive internal shell, called a cuttlebone, which is used for buoyancy control and for providing a mineral reserve for eggs. Sepioloidea are found in shallow, coastal waters worldwide, typically residing on or near the seabed. They are active predators, feeding on crustaceans, fish, and other small invertebrates.
Common Names
Sepioloidea includes several common names, including:
- Cuttlefish
- Bobtail Squid
- Pygmy Squid
Characteristics
Sepioloidea are characterized by several distinctive features, including:
- Internal shell (cuttlebone) used for buoyancy control and mineral reserve for eggs
- Eight arms and two longer tentacles
- Short, stout body with a rounded head
- W-shaped pupils
- Ability to change color and skin texture for camouflage and communication
Environments
Sepioloidea are typically found in shallow, coastal waters, often residing on or near the seabed. They prefer habitats with sandy or muddy bottoms, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs.