Flamboyant Cuttlefish

( Metasepia pfefferi )

Flambos have been recorded living in sand and mud substrate in shallow waters to depths of 86m.

The species is active during the day and has been observed hunting small fish and crustaceans. It employs complex and varied camouflage to stalk its prey. The normal base color of this species is dark brown.

Individuals that are disturbed or attacked quickly change color to a pattern of black, dark brown, and white, with yellow patches around the mantle, arms, and eyes.   Animals displaying this color pattern have been observed using their lower arms to walk or “amble” along the sea floor on their arms. The Flamboyant Cuttlefish is the only known poisonous cuttlefish in the world.