Mollusc Iridescence & the Stubby Squid

I finally was able to capture a stubby squid (rossia pacifica) changing color from reddish purple to iridescent. The small (3″) squid held its pose for just long enough for me to snap a couple shots. They typically change to the lighter-pale iridescent colors when they feel threatened. My dive light gave little squiddy just enough of a scare to change his color for a fraction of a second, but not enough to make him flee. These small molluscs are cute, ever-elusive and are actually more closely related to the cuttlefish than squid – despite the common name. They’re relatively abundant in the temperate waters of Puget Sound, but you have to look closely to find one.

Continue Reading March 29th, 2007