Caption: Immature squid (Euprymna scolopes). A symbiotic relationship exists between a luminescent bacterium and the squid. The bacteria in ocean environments causes the squid to produce a mucus substance that is secreted below the light organ on the squid. Cilia are used to draw more bacteria into this mucus matrix. The bacteria migrate into the light organ and colonize an area within it. They provide a light source for the squid to make it blend in with the ocean floor at night. Thus predators have a hard time seeing the squid.
Magnification*: x6
Type: SEM
Keywords: 20060C.TIF mollusc squid immature tentacle lateral eye siphon mantle marine salt water mollusk symbiosis symbiotic luminescent bacteria bacterium vibrio invertebrate invertebrates sea water bobtailed squid Euprymna scolopes SEM |

*(Magnifications are based on a 35mm slide image of