Image description: A side-on shot of a Cuttlefish. Image by Naveen Manohar / Pixabay
The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has announced the launch of an action plan to support the cuttlefish fishery in English waters, following engagement with stakeholders.
AN estimated 4,000 tonnes of cuttlefish are landed in the UK every year on average. Largely caught in the English Channel, most is exported as a delicacy in France and Spain.
The MMO stated their work on the Channel Demersal Non-Quota Species Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) identified a need to better understand fishing impact on numbers and the health of stocks, after concerns stock levels are at risk of being over exploited were raised. After listening to stakeholder feedback, MMO fisheries managers developed the cuttlefish action plan to better monitor and collect data to help with future decisions on potential management, including testing technical measures to conserve stocks.
Debate on whether UK should consume more cuttlefish
The Guardian recently reported on the debate around whether Brits should be eating more cuttlefish. In favour of cuttlefish consumption, restaurants and entrepreneurs are touting the superior flavour of cuttlefish is driving heightened sales. Supporters also argue eating cuttlefish supports locally sourced fish, when the majority of British seafood consumption (80%) derives from imported species, making it a more sustainable choice.
On the other hand, the Guardian also reports juxtaposing concerns over cuttlefish’s sustainability. The Marine Conservation Society’s Good Fish Guide does not currently recommend cuttlefish as a sustainable option, although wild-caught pot, trap or creel options are favoured to trawling.
Cuttlefish camouflage
A new study from Bristol University revealed cuttlefish employ a dynamic camouflage tactic that challenges previous ideas about how animals remain hidden while moving.
The experts recorded cuttlefish targeting crabs and noticed a striking display that seems to distract the prey’s motion-detection system.
Broadclub cuttlefish (Sepia latimanus) have been seen using a novel form of camouflage which involves their incredible ability to move stripes along their skin. They introduced the high-contrast moving pattern that travels down the predator’s body, starting when the cuttlefish is about 3.2 ft from its target.
The cuttlefish have control of cells within the skin known as chromatophores and through manipulating these cells, the cuttlefish can change color and even texture. The researchers have named this hunting technique a passing-stripe display. By harnessing strong downward motion cues, the cuttlefish weaken the usual signals that alert the crab to danger.
The BBC has shared a video of a cuttlefish mesmerising a crab before an attack.