Cuttlefish: Facts, Habitat, Anatomy

Infographic Published : Dec 03, 2024 Updated : Dec 12, 2024
Everything you need to know about this very smart marine mollusc
Everything you need to know about this very smart marine mollusc

1: What are cuttlefish?

Cuttlefish are marine animals closely related to octopuses and squids. 

2: What makes cuttlefish unique in appearance and movement?

Cuttlefish have oval-shaped, soft bodies with chromatophore cells that enable rapid color changes. They possess two side fins for undulating movement and a siphon under their head for jet propulsion.

3: How do cuttlefish defend themselves?

To escape predators, they can camouflage, mimic other animals, or expel ink clouds to obscure vision and mask scent.

4: Are cuttlefish considered intelligent?

Cuttlefish are among the smartest invertebrates, comparable to crows and primates.

About the contributors

Wenzel Pinto

Wenzel Pinto

is a marine biologist at the Nature Conservation Foundation and is currently working on reef dynamics and island vulnerability in the Lakshadweep archipelago.
Diviya Mehra

Diviya Mehra

is a graphic designer. She was the former art director of National Geographic Traveller. Her love for animals, travel and design has shaped her career through the years.
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