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Cephalopods

Abstract:

Cephalopods are an interesting and diverse group of animals in nature, and their dexterity, speed, unique anatomical features, colorful beauty, visual acuity, and ability to learn various tasks make them popular with the communication media and public in general. Cephalopods are members of the phylum Mollusca and share basic body organizational features with the gastropods, bivalves, and other mollusks. The octopuses are represented by several families and have a worldwide distribution. The cephalopod immune system can be compromised easily with poor water quality, overcrowding, and/or increased bacterial load on the aquatic system. Disease management of captive cephalopods depends on careful and attentive husbandry with high-quality nutrition, frequent clinical assessment and observation of animals, and appropriate use of antibiotics. The best approach in the treatment of cephalopods is the careful monitoring and control of water quality. Since the high surface area skin has a microvillus border, drugs may be readily absorbed, and possibly at toxic levels.