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Bigfin reef Squid, Sepioteuthis lessoniana, commonly known as the glitter squid or oval squid, is a species of loliginid squid. It is one of the three currently recognized species belonging to the genus Sepioteuthis. Studies in 1993, however, have indicated that bigfin reef squids may comprise a cfyptic species complex. The species is likely to include several very similar and closely related species. Bigfin reef squids are characterised by a large oval fin that extends throughout the margins of its mantle, giving them a superficial similarity to cuttlefish. They are small to medium-sized squids, averaging 3.8 to 33 centimetres in length. They exhibit elaborate mating displays and usually spawn in May, but it can vary by location. calamaro di lesson
Bigfin reef Squid – Calamaro di Lesson – Sepioteuthis lessoniana – www.intotheblue.it
The paralarvae resemble miniature adults and are remarkable for already having the capability to change body colouration upon hatching. Bigfin reef squids have the fastest recorded growth rates of any large marine invertebrate, reaching 600 g in only four months. They are a short-lived species, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 315 days. The diet of bigfin reef squids comprises mainly crustaceans and small fish. They are found in the temperate and tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, and have recently been introduced into the Mediterranean sea as a Lessepsian migrant.
Bigfin reef Squid – Calamaro di Lesson – Sepioteuthis lessoniana – www.intotheblue.it
They are commonly found near the shoreline, near rocks, and coral reefs. They are fished extensively for human consumption in Asia. Because of their rapid growth rate, short life span, and tolerance to handling and captivity, bigfin reef squids are regarded as one of the most promising species for mariculture. They are also a valuable source of giant axon for medical research. Large chromatophores densely cover the upper surfaces of the head, mantle and arms. They are distributed more sparsely on the ventral side. The fins do not possess chromatophores on the underside. Living specimens range in colour from translucent creamy white through pale yellow to brownish pink and brownish violet. Bigfin reef squids do not possess photophores, and are thus not truly bioluminescent.
Bigfin reef Squid – Calamaro di Lesson – Sepioteuthis lessoniana – www.intotheblue.it
The bigfin reef squid is a neretic warm water-dwelling squid. They are usually found 0 to 100 m. below the water’s surface. They tend to remain close to the shoreline, near rocks and reefs. They are slightly more active during the night and will move to deeper waters or find cover in daytime. Large numbers of juveniles can often be found hiding beneath floating driftwood.
(extract from Wikipedia)
