Cephalopod Gastroenterology: Health and Disease

Cephalopods are a class of molluscs that include animals such as squids, octopuses, cuttlefish, and nautiluses. Cephalopod gastroenterology explores the digestive systems of these fascinating marine creatures. Their digestive tracts typically feature a beak-like mouth leading to a muscular esophagus, which guides prey into a stomach equipped with digestive glands for enzymatic breakdown. Unlike many other mollusks, cephalopods lack a true radula, using instead a beak to grasp and tear food. After digestion, waste passes through a short intestine and exits through an anus near the siphon. Cephalopod digestive physiology varies among species based on diet and habitat, influencing their overall biology and ecology. Understanding these intricacies helps comprehend their evolutionary history and aids in conservation efforts. This book explores all the important aspects of cephalopod gastroenterology. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards the evolution of this field are examined in detail. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.