Decoding Deception: The binding affinity of cuttlefish ink on shark smell receptors.

Chemical signaling can play a crucial role in predator-prey dynamics. Here, we present evidence that ink from the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) targets olfactory receptor proteins in shark, potentially acting as a predator deterrence. We apply in silico 3D docking analysis to investigate the binding affinity of various odorant molecules to shark olfactory receptors of two shark species: cloudy catshark (Scyliorhinus torazame) and white shark (Carcharodon carcharias).

Getting Nosy: Olfactory Rosette Morphology and Lamellar Microstructure of Two Chondrichthyan Species.

To smell, fish rely on passive water flow into their olfactory chambers and through their olfactory rosettes to detect chemical signals in their aquatic environment. The olfactory rosette is made up of secondarily folded tissues called olfactory lamellae. The olfactory morphology of cartilaginous fishes varies widely in both rosette gross morphology and lamellar microstructure.

Microstructure of the Bonnethead Shark () Olfactory Rosette.

Synopsis: The unusual shape of sphyrnid (hammerhead shark) heads has led to many functional hypotheses of potential sensory advantages and enhanced olfactory performance. Recent investigations into the flow of water within the sphyrnid olfactory chamber demonstrate that this complex structure exhibits a differential pressure system between the 2 nares that induces flow through the chamber. This leads to differential fluid velocities in different parts of the olfactory chamber.