Squid Anatomy I
Squid use these to grab their prey.
Feeding tentacles
This gives support and acts like a backbone for squid, even though they are invertebrates.
Pen
Squid have an _________________ for rapid processing of sensory data and coordination of body
Advanced brain
True or False. Squid can regrow/regenerate their arms.
True.
You should always wear these when dissecting to protect your eyes and skin.
Gloves + Goggles
These organs help squid to breath underwater.
Gills
These body structures help to stabilize or balance the body when swimming.
Fin
Squid have well-developed eyes that allow them to ____________________.
See and catch prey
What is typical life span of a squid?
1-2 years
These are used to hold the dissection specimen open for easier visibility while dissecting.
Dissecting pins
There are three of these present in a squid.
Hearts
The squid uses these to change color and texture to match their surroundings.
Chromatophores
Squid use a movement pattern called _____________ to swim quickly and escape predators.
Jet propulsion
What color is squid blood? (Bonus: Why?)
Blue!
Squid do indeed have blood, but its composition is quite distinct from human blood. While human blood appears red due to hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that binds oxygen, squid blood contains a different oxygen-carrying molecule called hemocyanin. This copper-based protein is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the squid’s body.
When hemocyanin binds with oxygen, it undergoes a chemical reaction that causes the blood to appear blue or greenish-blue. In its deoxygenated state, hemocyanin is colorless. Unlike hemoglobin, which is contained within red blood cells, hemocyanin is dissolved directly in the squid’s hemolymph. This difference in the oxygen-binding metal and its molecular structure accounts for the striking blue color of squid blood.
When cleaning up after a dissection, it is important to_______.
Dispose of specimens carefully, wipe down surfaces, wash hands
This structure helps propel the squid through the water
Siphon
Squid are able to _______________ using chromatophores.
camouflage
What is largest squid species?
Colossal squid. Invertebrates are animals without a backbone, and the largest of them all is the Colossal squid. This fairly recently discovered species is the largest known squid; it can weigh at least 1,091 lb / 495 kg but probably weighs a lot more. The maximum length is estimated to be up to 46 ft / 14 meters.
When dissecting with a partner it is important to be mindful of ____________________.
Communicate, be mindful of where their hands, etc. are while cutting, pinning, etc.
This organ is parrot-like and is what the squid uses to eat.
Beak
This is the organ that produces ink that is used to distract animals trying to attack squids.
Ink sac
How do squid's arms and tentacles help them survive?
8 arms and 2 longer feeding tentacles - help with movement, catching, and eating
What is the smallest squid species?
southern pygmy squid
The smallest squid species is the southern pygmy squid, which is recognized as the world's smallest known cephalopod, with males measuring 0.63 inches (1.6 cm) in mantle length.
What tools (name at least 3) do you need to complete dissection?
Dissection tray, scissors, pins, safety goggles, gloves, etc.