Common names
Cuttles
Cuttlefish
Sepia officinalis
- Saltwater
Max length19.75 in
Common length7.75 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight23 lb 2 oz
Max age2 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
Short description
Cuttlefish are marine invertebrates belonging to the mollusc family. They have a rounded, compact body and a unique internal structure called a cuttlebone, which helps them control buoyancy in the water. This rigid, porous internal shell sets them apart from squid. They have eight short arms and two longer feeding tentacles equipped with gripping suckers used to seize prey. A thin fin runs almost all the way around the body, allowing precise and graceful movement. Their large, forward-facing eyes have distinctive W-shaped pupils. One of their most remarkable traits is their ability to rapidly change colour and even alter skin texture, allowing them to blend perfectly into their surroundings.
Habitat
Cuttlefish live in tropical and temperate seas, mostly in shallow coastal waters. They are commonly found around rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy bottoms, though some species can move into deeper water, reaching depths of several hundred metres.
Distribution
Cuttlefish are found along the coasts of East and South Asia, Western Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, Africa, and Australia. Notably, they are absent from the Americas.
Behaviour
Cuttlefish are active predators that feed on small fish, crabs, shrimp, molluscs, worms, octopus, and even other cuttlefish. They are considered among the most intelligent invertebrates, with a large brain relative to body size. Cuttlefish can instantly change colour patterns for camouflage, communication, or hunting, and can also raise bumps on their skin to mimic rocks, sand, or coral.
Edibility
Cuttlefish are widely used in coastal cuisines and are valued for both flavour and nutrition. The flesh is tender with a mild, slightly sweet seafood taste. Cuttlefish ink is also highly prized, offering a rich, briny, umami flavour that deepens dishes while adding a distinctive dark colour.
Lure suggestion
Cuttlefish are commonly targeted using a technique known as eging or light spin fishing. A long, soft rod with thin braided line provides the sensitivity needed to detect subtle takes. Because cuttlefish don’t strike aggressively, anglers often feel only a steady weight on the line. Specialized jigs are essential for this style of fishing. These lures imitate fish or crustaceans and are fitted with a crown of small spikes rather than hooks, which the cuttlefish grips with its tentacles. Carry both beads and silent jigs, noisy ones can trigger curiosity, while silent jigs often work better in heavily fished areas. Use natural colours in clear water and darker colours in murky conditions. Always land cuttlefish with a net and avoid sharp strikes, as their tentacles are delicate and they may release ink when brought to the surface. Good baits: fresh shrimp, small pieces of fish or live baby squid.