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We have recorded the second generation of cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) bred at the Pula Aquarium!
The cuttlefish that hatched in our aquarium last year have started laying their own eggs, and the first were recorded on April 21st, which coincides with the spawning period in nature, which lasts during March and April.
This is the breeding of the second generation (F2 generation), which requires great attention and gradual adjustment of the diet as the cuttlefish grow, from mysid shrimp and artemia to larger shrimps, crabs and zebrafish.
The eggs are attached to the leaves of seagrasses in the pool, while in nature, cuttlefish lay them on algae, rocks and other substrates in the shallow coastal area. These are gelatinous shells gathered in clusters, which is why they are often called "sea grapes". Immediately after laying, the eggs are black because the female covers them with ink to camouflage them and protect them from predators.
Interestingly, as the embryos develop, the eggs gradually become transparent, allowing the young cuttlefish to be seen inside just before hatching. The speed of development depends greatly on the temperature of the sea: at a temperature of around 20 °C, young cuttlefish take approximately 40 to 45 days to hatch, while at lower temperatures, around 15 °C, development can be extended to 80 to 90 days.
Newborn cuttlefish are actually miniature copies of adults, ready to live independently because this species does not require parental care.
