Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Metasepia pfefferi

Data Deficient
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DESCRIPTION

This small cephalopod is known as the Flamboyant Cuttlefish due to its striking and rapid color changes. It primarily "walks" along the seafloor using its arms and fins rather than swimming, owing to a small internal cuttlebone. Metasepia pfefferi is also one of the few known venomous cephalopods, displaying its vibrant colors as a warning to predators.

Max Length 13 cm
Max Weight 0.4 kg
Lifespan 18 - 24 months
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 3 - 86 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Flamboyant Cuttlefish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Range

Where Flamboyant Cuttlefish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Where can you see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish can be seen at 15 dive destinations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, and South Africa. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Kapalai (Malaysia), Lembeh Strait (Indonesia), Mabul (Malaysia), and Apo Reef (Philippines).

What is the best time to see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish?

Sightings of the Flamboyant Cuttlefish peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October and Komodo from March to October.

Can you see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish all year round?

Yes. At Kapalai, Lembeh Strait, and Mabul, the Flamboyant Cuttlefish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish at Kapalai, Mabul, and Sipadan.

Where can you see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish at Lembeh Strait, Gili Islands, Komodo, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

Where can you see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Flamboyant Cuttlefish at Anilao, Apo Reef, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

How big does the Flamboyant Cuttlefish get?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish can reach up to 13 cm in length and 0.4 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Flamboyant Cuttlefish live in?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Flamboyant Cuttlefish live?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish lives between 3 and 86 m deep.

What does the Flamboyant Cuttlefish eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Flamboyant Cuttlefish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Flamboyant Cuttlefish live?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish lives 18 to 24 months.

What is the conservation status of the Flamboyant Cuttlefish?

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish is listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Flamboyant Cuttlefish. Spotted something that looks off?

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