Como identificar European Squid

Para identificar European Squid (Loligo vulgaris), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

torpedo

Coloração

Highly variable, capable of rapid color changes (chromatophores) for camouflage and communication. Typically translucent to whitish, with reddish-brown to purplish spots and stripes. Can display iridescent hues.

Tipo de escama

none

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Elongated, cylindrical mantle tapering to a point posteriorly., Large, prominent eyes., Two long, slender tentacles with suckers only at the club-like ends, used for prey capture., Eight shorter arms lined with suckers., Diamond-shaped fins located at the posterior end of the mantle, extending for about two-thirds of the mantle length., Internal gladius (pen) made of chitin, providing support.

Nadadeira dorsal

Not applicable (cephalopod fins are lateral extensions of the mantle)

Nadadeira caudal

Not applicable (no caudal fin; propulsion is via jetting and fin undulation)

Nadadeira peitoral

Not applicable (fins are lateral mantle extensions)

Nadadeiras características

Two large, diamond-shaped fins located on the posterior two-thirds of the mantle, used for stabilization and slow movement. Jet propulsion from the funnel is used for rapid escape.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Mantle Shape

   Elongated, cylindrical, and tapering to a distinct point. The fins are diamond-shaped and extend for about two-thirds of the mantle length.

2. 2

   Tentacles and Arms

   Two long tentacles with suckers only on the club-like ends, and eight shorter arms with suckers along their entire length. The suckers on the arms have chitinous rings with small teeth.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Observe its ability to rapidly change color and pattern. The typical resting coloration is translucent white to reddish-brown with chromatophore patterns.

4. 4

   Gladius (Pen)

   If examining a dead specimen, the internal gladius is a clear, feather-shaped chitinous structure running the length of the mantle.

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