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Broadclub Cuttlefish

Broadclub cuttlefish are named for their unique cuttlebones – which help them stay afloat in bodies of water. These bones act as an internal shell and are found along the backs of these mollusks.  

 

Broadclub cuttlefish are found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific Oceans. Because they’re naturally buoyant, they stay in shallow waters no more than 30 meters (98.4 feet) deep, where they can hide in reefs from predators. These animals can grow up to 50 cm long, not including their tentacles, and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds). In addition to their eight arms, they have two rounded, club-like tentacles which hang from their body and help capture prey. 

Cuttlefish are masters of disguise and have been observed displaying 13 different patterns along their bodies, which they can change at will! Unlike other cephalopods, even young broadclub cuttlefish can display all 13 patterns. Aside from patterns, broadclub cuttlefish can also change their texture through tiny bumps called papillae that cover the surface of their skin. Cuttlefish only live between 14 and 18 months and are often preyed upon by large fish, sharks, and dolphins. 

 

 

Cuttlefish are extensively fished by humans in the Mediterranean and Southeast Asian waters where they are used as a food source.  Because many cuttlefish species look alike, and therefore it is tricky for scientists to estimate how many broadclub cuttlefish there may be in our oceans they are considered “Data Deficient” by the IUCN.  

 

 

As reef-dwelling creatures, damage to reef ecosystems because of climate change will likely harm cuttlefish populations. Oceana campaigns to protect critical habitat and our oceans from the effects of climate change.

 

 

Animal Diversity Web

Omura, A. & Ikeda, Y. (2021). Morphology of the suckers for hunting behavior in broadclub cuttlefish (Sepia latimanus). Ecological Research 37(1), 156-162. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1703.12278

Le Pabic, C., Rousseau, M., Bonnaud, L., & von Boletzky, S. (2016). Overview of the shell development of the common cuttlefish Sepia officinalis during early-life stages. Vie et Milieu 66(1), 35-42.

 

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