The Paintpot Cuttlefish – Cephalopods in Okinawa

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The Paintpot cuttlefish (Metasepia tulbergi) is one of the most beautiful marine animals in Okinawa. The skin of the paintpot cuttlefish is toxic (poisonous) if consumed. The paintpot cuttlefish contains a neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin (venom) used to paralyze its prey. Avoid handling or harassing this beautiful animal. If bitten, seek immediate medical treatment.
  • Scientific name: Metasepia tulbergi
  • Common name:  Paintpot cuttlefish or flamboyant
  • Distribution:  Ryukyu Islands
  • Habitat:  Sandy bottom and coral reefs
  • Diet: Crabs, shrimp, and fish
  • Average size: 50-80mm
  • Color: Golden-yellow with red coloration
DSC_4989 Cool facts about the Paintpot Cuttlefish  
  1. They have eight arms and two tentacles
  2. They are capable of producing a dark cloud of ink to escape from predators
  3. They have a parrot-like beak used for eating prey
  4. They use jet propulsion to move quickly through the water
  5. They can change their texture, pattern, color, and shape
  6. They use their arms to walk on the sand
  7. They are considered venomous and poisonous
When threatened, the paintpot cuttlefish produces vibrant colors to warn predators that they are toxic. The scientific term for this is aposematism. DSC_8214 They have a two-part parrot-like beak used for feeding. Cephalopod Beak Cephalopods can produce a cloud of ink to confuse and escape from predators when threatened. Cephalopod ink Below is a sequence of images, displaying their ability to change texture, shape, and color. They are masters of camouflage. An example of how well they blend into their environment. DSC_8207DSC_8208If detected or threatened, they will display colorful warning signs. DSC_8209DSC_8211

Every year, I look forward to finding the gigantic paintpot cuttlefish named Paintpot-Zilla. 20130617-DSC_0519-2

My Mission: To Protect and Preserve the Wildlife of the Ryukyu Islands for Future Generations

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