Squids, octopuses (not "octopi"), and cuttlefishes are biologically classified as the "Coleoids," and are among some of the most intelligent animals on the planet. Generally considered as the driving force behind their intelligence, their active predatory lifestyle is complimented by an array of features, such as their eight arms (plus an additional 2 grasping tentacles in squids and cuttlefishes) and the ability to camouflage. The two grasping tentacles of squids and cuttlefishes are considerably longer than the eight accompanying arms, all of which are attached to the head, which is proceeded by the main body mass called the mantle. The arms and tentacles are lined with suction cups (as well as hooks on ends of the tentacles), which help to bring forth prey into the animal's sharp, parrot-like beak. They locomote by use of a water propulsion jet at the front of the mantle called the siphon. The eyes of Coleoids are very developed, and are similar to the eyes of vertebrates. Coleoids can change colors or emit light via the use of chromatophores in their skin. The chromatophores enable camouflage, distraction, and communication amongst members of a species, and can especially aid in communicative cooperation when hunting (as seen in the highly cooperative Humboldt Squid). The largest squids known are the Giant Squid (Architeuthis dux), and the Colossal Squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni), both of which can reach lengths over 40’ long, while the largest octopus on record, the Giant Pacific Octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) can get a maximum arm width of 30'! The oldest potential Coleoid in the fossil record comes from the earlier part of the Devonian period of Germany (408-393 million years ago), and is named Naefiteuthis breviphragmoconus, though more fossil material is needed to confirm if it is a true member of the Coleoidea.
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-Dome Size: 4&1/4"H x 4"W -Species: Lolliguncula brevis -Notes: A beautiful, dry-preserved specimen that is perfect for both the nature collector and oddity collector alike. This small species can be found at the mouths of rivers, and can survive in minimal salinity. -Location: western Atlantic Ocean This item can...
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-Dome Size: 4&1/2H x 4"W -Species: Octopus vulgaris -Notes: A beautiful, dry-preserved specimen that is perfect for both the nature collector and oddity collector alike. This species is widely distributed throughout most of the Atlantic Ocean. -Location: Atlantic Ocean This item can not be sent outside of the USA.
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-Dome Size: 4&1/2"H x 5"W -Species: Dosidicus gigas -Notes: The Humboldt Squid is said to be more dangerous than sharks according to Mexican fishermen, whom have dubbed the creature diablo rojo ("Red Devils"). They are the only squid documented for attacking humans. -Location: eastern Pacific Ocean This item can not...