Leachia

Leachia is a genus containing six species of glass squids. The genus is divided into two subgenera: Leachia and Pyrgopsis.

Members of this genus live in tropical and sub-tropical waters worldwide. The mantle is up to 20 cm long in the largest species. Leachia are characterised by the presence of two parallel ridges bearing raised cartilage spikes, which run along the underside of the body near the head. They have large round fins, which often constitute 20–30% of the entire mantle length. Like most glass squids, members of this genus possess a ring of light organs around their eyes. Bioluminescent cells produce light that cancels the shadow cast by their large eyes. Typical of cranchiid squids, juvenile Leachia species have stalked eyes. As they mature, females develop light organs on the ends of their third arm pairs. These are thought to be used in mating displays to attract males.

Classification

Genus Leachia

• Subgenus Leachia
  • Leachia cyclura
  • Leachia ellipsoptera
  • Leachia lemur
• Subgenus Pyrgopsis
  • Leachia atlantica
  • Leachia pacifica
  • Leachia rynchophorus

References

• Norman, M. 2000. Cephalopods: A World Guide. Hackenheim, ConchBooks, p. 158.

External links

• CephBase: Leachia