Cuttlefish

Characteristics

Cuttlefish have a more rounded body when compared to a squid and also have a much more rigid 'cuttlebone'. These invertebrates have a small fin that rings nearly the entire mantle, 8 arms and two much longer tentacles used to catch prey. The eyes are large and are located forward on the head. This creature is able to change colour and produce protrusions from its skin to mimic its environment.

Size

The Australian Giant Cuttlefish has been recorded over 40 cm mantle length and more than 5 kg in weight. More common, smaller species rarely grow more than 20 cm mantle length.

Distribution

Several species of cuttlefish inhabit NSW waters ranging from the shallow inshore reefs and weeds beds to deep offshore areas.  

Confusing species

May be confused with some squid species.