Difference between Cuttlefish and Squid
Both squid and cuttlefish belong to the class of cephalopods, or cephalopoda , along with octopuses and nautiluses. This class of marine invertebrates belongs to the phylum Molluscs. A characteristic feature of cephalopods is that they have numerous tentacles, depending on the species. It is very likely that due to this characteristic these animals are confused with each other. However, this is not the only important characteristic of cephalopods. In addition, they have an organ that no other animal has, called the foot (not to be confused with the human foot), which allows them to perform various functions. For example, this organ allows them to move more easily, since it produces a lubricating mucus or slime. It also works as a suction cup in some species and as a propellant in others.
Squid |
Sepia |
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|---|---|---|
| taxonomy | Animalia, Mollusca, Cephalopoda, Coleoidea, Decapodiformes, Teuthida. | Animalia, Mollusca, Cephalopoda, Coleoidea, Decapodiformes, Sepiida. |
| General description | Squids are elongated in shape. They do not usually measure more than 60 cm in length, although the giant squid and the colossal squid can measure more than 13 and 15 meters respectively. They have 8 arms and 2 tentacles. | Also called cuttlefish. Physically they are different from squid. Their bodies are wider and their tentacles (10) are shorter. They measure between 30 and 40 centimeters in length. |
| Bone | The squids have inside a cartilaginous bone which is called pen. This bone is transparent. | In contrast, the cuttlefish bone is calcareous and white in color. It is also ovoid in shape, although it is shorter than the squid feather. This bone is used to put in the cages of some pet birds, as it helps them to sharpen their beaks at the same time that they obtain calcium and minerals from it. |
| Color change | Squids have chromatophores, which are cells that allow them to control colors and light reflection. Therefore, they possess the ability to change color as a defense mechanism. | Cuttlefish also have chromatophores, so they are able to camouflage themselves and change color. |
| Is it fit for human consumption? | Yes, squid is one of the most popular seafood in the world. | In the same way, cuttlefish is a popular shellfish, although in some places its consumption is neither regular nor common. |
| Do you have ink? | Yes. | Yes. |