👉 The shell fluid, also known as mantle fluid or peristomal fluid, is a vital component of cephalopod anatomy, primarily found in squids, cuttlefish, and octopuses. It is secreted by specialized glands located in the mantle cavity, which surrounds the soft body of the animal. This fluid serves multiple critical functions: it lubricates the internal organs and the suckermouth, allowing for efficient feeding and movement; it provides buoyancy control, helping the cephalopod maintain its position in the water column; and it acts as a protective barrier, shielding the soft tissues from abrasion and infection. The fluid's composition can vary based on environmental conditions and physiological needs, but it generally includes water, salts, proteins, and other organic compounds.
