Care and welfare of egg masses and hatchlings of cephalopods: an introduction

Abstract

Usually, laboratory experiments with cephalopod embryos and hatchlings involve dozens to thousands of individuals. Incubation conditions of egg masses with and without maternal care under laboratory conditions are here identified. Main factors influencing embryonic development are reviewed as well as mechanisms that promote premature hatching, a source of mortality of these young stages. Advanced developed cephalopod embryos and hatchlings are characterized by a nervous system and sensory receptors that matches the general pattern described for adults, with well developed sensory systems. These characteristics reinforce the inclusion of these early life stages in the EU Directive on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes