Manual of the New Zealand Mollusca

Manual of the New Zealand Mollusca, Wellington, N.Z, J. Mackay, govt. printer, 1913-1915 New Zealand mollusks Sepia apama color our collections NZ species, This illustration depicts a cephalopod, showcasing its distinct features. The creature's bulbous body is prominent, with a smooth, rounded mantle that tapers towards the rear. A notable characteristic is the symmetrical arrangement of tentacles extending from the head, each adorned with suckers that aid in navigation and capturing prey. The illustration emphasizes the eye, centrally positioned and expressive, contributing to the creature's enigmatic appearance. At the center, the beak-like mouth is subtly visible, hinting at its predatory nature. The detailed anatomy highlights both the elegance and complexity of this fascinating marine animal. (Photo by: Sepia Times/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)