Asymmetries in the sense organs and central nervous system of the squid <i>Histioteuthis</i>

Abstract

The visual system of Histioteuthis is markedly asymmetrical, in that the eyes and optic lobes are considerably larger on the left side, and the lens of the left eye is often yellower in colour than that of the right eye. At the histological level, the rhabdomes of the retinas of both eyes show the usual rectilinear pattern typical of cephalopods. Unlike other species described, however, the orientation of the pattern is not uniform over the retina. The optic lobes are well developed on both sides, again following the typical squid pattern, although the plexiform and inner granular layers are thicker on the left side. In life it is likely that the animals orient at an oblique angle with the arms downward, and the left eye pointing upwards and the right eye downwards, and the asymmetries of the visual system are probably related to this posture. No corresponding asymmetries in the statocysts or other parts of the central nervous system have, however, been detected