Wild Wednesday - Common cuttlefish
The Common Cuttlefish, scientific name, Sepia officinalis, is one of the most fascinating marine creatures found along the UK coastline, including right here in West Sussex.
Despite its name, it is not a fish at all, but a 'cephalopod' which means it is closely related to squids and octopuses.
Cuttlefish are known for their remarkable intelligence, with one of the largest brains of any invertebrate (animal without a backbone). They can change colour and texture in an instant to camouflage, communicate, or dazzle potential mates. Their skin pulses with patterns during mating displays, and they can even mimic the seabed to hide from predators.
These chunky, squid-like animals grow up to 45 centimetres long, with eight arms and two tentacles equipped with suckers for catching prey. Their internal shell, the cuttlebone, often washes up on beaches and is commonly used in bird cages as a calcium supplement.
Cuttlefish live in waters up to 200 metres deep, but in spring and summer, they move into shallow coastal areas to breed. In West Sussex, sightings are in weedy, sandy areas near the shore. Keep an eye out for cuttlebones on beaches such as Littlehampton, Climping, or Bognor Regis, as this a sure sign they will be nearby.
Their eggs, often called 'sea grapes' are dyed black with ink and attach to seaweed or rocks. Cuttlefish typically live for two years, dying shortly after breeding.
While still considered common, there are concerns about overfishing in the English Channel, including areas off the Sussex coast. Sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation efforts are vital to protect this incredible species.
Read more here: Common cuttlefish | The Wildlife Trusts