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Histioteuthis arcturi

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description Histioteuthis arcturi Overview

Histioteuthis arcturi is a species of squid in the family Histioteuthidae, commonly found in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Like other members of its family, often called jewel squids, it is distinguished by having noticeably asymmetric eyes, with the left eye being significantly larger than the right. It possesses a dense covering of photophores on its ventral surface, which are used for counter-illumination at mesopelagic depths to avoid predators. This deep-sea adaptation helps mask its silhouette from below.

help Histioteuthis arcturi FAQ

What family does Histioteuthis arcturi belong to?

Histioteuthis arcturi belongs to the family Histioteuthidae. Members of this family are often called jewel squids because of their light-producing organs.

Why are Histioteuthis squids known for asymmetric eyes?

Histioteuthis species typically have one much larger eye, usually the left eye, and one smaller eye. The large eye is adapted to detect faint light above the squid in deep water.

Where does Histioteuthis arcturi live?

Histioteuthis arcturi is commonly found in deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a pelagic squid, living in the water column rather than on the seafloor.

What is unusual about the eyes of Histioteuthis arcturi?

The left eye is significantly larger than the right eye, creating the family's characteristic asymmetry. This arrangement is linked to seeing silhouettes and weak light in the deep ocean.

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