Nautilus

Pearly Nautilus
Nautilus pompilius

Nautilus are one of the most primitive living cephalopods and occur in the Pacific Ocean at depths ranging from 100 – 500 metres. We can display them in our exhibits as they are tolerant of both cold and warm temperatures and often make nocturnal migrations up the water column from the cold depths towards the warmers waters in search of food.

This soft bodied animal is related to the octopus and the squid. It has many tentacles, which it uses to capture its prey. Unlike the octopus it has a hard outer shell which has many chambers. It is believed that a variation in gas allows the Nautilus to control its buoyancy. It has two large but primitive eyes. This Nautilus gets its name from the beautiful shell it lives in. The shell is often sold as a decorative feature.

A definite must see when next you visit – ask any Sea Word staff member where he is and they will delight in showing you.