More Cephalopods on the Reef
Dear Reader:
I am working my way patiently along the edge of the Noarlunga reef-on the shallow side near the jetty. The water is no more than a couple of metres deep and surprisingly clear. Small schools of mullet are congregating near the surface, their silver sides reflecting the light with sudden bright flashes. Just below me there are several recesses that cut under the rocks and I can see some movement in one: perhaps a leatherjacket or even some bullseyes. I swim down and hold onto a nearby rock until my eyes adjust to the light. To my delight my encounter is a little more exotic, a giant cuttlefish is hovering above the sandy substrate patiently waiting for some unfortunate critter to come near its temporary lair.
Giant Cuttle (Sepia apama)
Length: mantle or body to 50cm.
- Lives around reefs and over seagrass meadows
- Hunts fish and crustaceans
- Gather in winter in large groups to mate
- Sexual reproduction and females attach clusters of eggs inside caves and crevices
- Cuttles die shortly after mating
- Can change colours rapidly to blend in with surroundings or display during courting
- Like squid and octopus they can expel ink
Cheers
Baz
Over the next few months I will be writing a book about the wildlife of the Fleurieu Peninsula. My posts will reflect the research I am doing and provide more detailed information about each animal that I encounter.
Naturally South Australia 