The hooded cuttlefish, scientifically known as Sepia prashadi, is a species found predominantly in the 🌊 Indian Ocean. First described in 1936, this cuttlefish features a slender, oval body, typically measuring between 5 to 11 centimeters (2 to 4.3 inches) in length. However, males can grow up to 19.6 centimeters (7.7 inches), while females can reach 21.2 centimeters (8.3 inches) and can weigh as much as 700 grams (1.5 pounds). Notable for their distinctive tentacles, the hooded cuttlefish has broad club-shaped tips with rows of suckers, some of which are enlarged to enhance their function.
These creatures inhabit shallow waters, generally found at depths between 40 and 50 meters (131 to 164 feet), with the capacity to reach depths up to 200 meters (656 feet). Their extensive habitat spans the east coast of Africa, 🇲🇬 Madagascar, 🇮🇳 India, the Bay of Bengal, the 🌊 Red Sea, the 🌊 Persian Gulf, the 🌊 Gulf of Oman, and the Andaman Sea, covering nearly two dozen countries.
The hooded cuttlefish exhibits migratory behaviors with patterns that vary seasonally. For example, they appear in large numbers from January to June in northeastern 🇮🇳 India, while their presence in southern areas like Chennai follows a different timeline. This often coincides with oceanic phenomena like upwellings, where nutrient-rich deep water rises to the surface.
In the broader category of cephalopods, hooded cuttlefish have separate sexes, a characteristic known as gonochoric. They display fascinating reproductive behavior; males perform intricate displays to attract females and use a specialized arm to transfer sperm into the female's mantle cavity. Following reproduction, typically both males and females die. The young start life as plankton before settling on the seabed as adults.
Hooded cuttlefish are known for being more curious and confident around divers compared to other cephalopods like squid or octopuses. Observations, particularly near Mumbai, show that their diet mainly consists of prawns, highlighting their significant role in the marine ecosystem.
Last Update: November 26, 2024