The CLASS Cephalopoda consists of Octopus, Squid, Cuttlefish, and Nautilus. Here you will find only Octopus and Squid. Anyone who has observed cephalopods underwater may have seen them squirt an inky smokescreen. The ink is porduced by a gland within the mantle. The ink is ejected during times of stress as a deterrent to escape potential predators. Most reef cephalopods have a very short life span that ranges from about 1-3 years. Besides fisherman, their main enemies are large caniverous fishes and sharks. Squid and cuttlefish are also consumed regularly by sea birds. In prime dive locations where fishing is prohibited their life span is much better.