Loligo vulgaris
The mantle of a squid is covered in a complex pattern of chromatophores. Each chromatophore can be expanded or contracted to bring out or reduce the appearance of that particular colour.
Loligo vulgaris, commonly known as the European squid, is a species of squid found mainly in the north-eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s an ecologically and economically important cephalopod. Here's a detailed look at its biology, ecology, and significance:
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Cephalopoda
Order: Myopsida
Family: Loliginidae
Genus: Loligo
Species: L. vulgaris
Habitat and Distribution
Found in coastal waters (depths of 10–500 meters)
Ranges from the North Sea and British Isles to the Mediterranean and north-western Africa
Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms, and often comes closer to shore for breeding
Morphology and Behaviour
Size: Up to 40–50 cm in mantle length
Body: Elongated, with a pair of triangular fins running along most of the mantle
Arms and Tentacles: 8 short arms + 2 long, retractable tentacles with suckers
Coloration: Capable of rapid colour change due to chromatophores in the skin
Behaviour
Fast swimmers using jet propulsion
Exhibit complex behaviours, including camouflage and schooling
Nocturnal feeders, mainly on fish, crustaceans, and other molluscs
Life Cycle
Lifespan: Typically 1–2 years (short-lived)
Reproduction:
Spawning occurs in shallow coastal areas
Eggs are laid in gelatinous capsules attached to the seabed
Juveniles hatch as miniature adults, undergo direct development
Ecological Role
Key prey species for marine predators: dolphins, sharks, large fish, seabirds
Important mid-level predator, regulating populations of smaller fish and crustaceans
Research Significance
Studied in marine biology for its nervous system, behaviour, and rapid adaptation mechanisms
Shares characteristics with other cephalopods, which are increasingly seen as sentient invertebrates
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Kingdom:
Animalia
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Species:
Loligo vulgaris
