Cuttlefishes
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Cuttlefishes need large or specialized tanks. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
Cuttlefishes have the ability to change colors rapidly for protection and in response to stress or predatory threats. They will need a large tank with a small rock island in a sand bed well planted with seagrass, but with sufficient open area for the animal to patrol. Most live less than three years in captivity. Try to get a small animal and raise it to maturity.
Family: Sepiidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
- Indo-Pacific
- Mediterranean
Habitat: Most cuttlefishes seen by aquarists hail from near-reef areas with shallow water, often over seagrass beds or open areas with sandy or soft bottoms.
Maximum length: 46 cm (18 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 1,140 L (301 gal)
Lighting: Normal diurnal cycle. Bright lighting is best.
Water: Marine 27 °C (300 K, 81 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Prefer live foods, primarily larger fishes. May be trained to take substitutes for live foods.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Prey on crustaceans, perhaps fishes.
[edit] Special Care
Because cuttlefishes are intolerant of fouled water and must be fed large food items, a heavy-duty skimmer and high-volume water circulation are required. Suitable for large tanks or specialized tanks only.
Match temperature to habitat of collection. Indo-Pacific specimens should not be kept at temperatures lower than 80°F (27°C).
[edit] Notes
Cuttlefish tend to be rather drab, but one species, the Flamboyant Cuttlefish (Metasepia pfefferi), is brightly patterned with black, violet, and yellow. It has two large dorsal fins lacking in Sepia species.
| Common name | Cuttlefishes + |
| Family | Sepiidae + |
| Genus | Sepia + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Lighting | Normal diurnal cycle. Bright lighting is best. + |
| Maximum length | 18 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 301 gal + |
| Native range | Indo-Pacific +, and Mediterranean + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Marine Invertebrates + |
| Specific name | spp. + |
| Text credit | RLS + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 300 K (27 °C, 81 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |