NPS Nautilus Research in American SamoaThe National Park of American Samoa and the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa recently collaborated with Dr. Peter Ward, a Nautilus researcher from the University of Washington, on a release exercise conducted off the coast of Amalau village within the national park. The researchers are studying population density and species composition in the waters surrounding Tutuila Island. About the NautilusThe nautilus is an ancient mollusk, often referred to as a living fossil, with a hard, spiral-shaped external shell. Found in deep waters, typically around 1,200 feet down, the nautilus is related to cephalopods like octopuses and squid, sharing a similar body structure with a prominent head and tentacles. However, nautiluses are unique in having up to 90 tentacles, significantly more than other cephalopods. Unlike octopuses, their tentacles lack suckers and are undifferentiated and retractable. Nautiluses propel themselves through the water by using jet propulsion, drawing water into their living chamber and expelling it. However, their vision is limited due to a simple pinhole eye that lacks a solid lens, leaving them with only basic sight capabilities in their environment. This research aims to deepen our understanding of the nautilus and the unique marine ecosystems of American Samoa. |
Last updated: September 30, 2024