flexensilla

Flexensilla is a genus of anomalopus, which is a group of marine cephalopods. These deep-sea cephalpods are found in the oceans around Australia and New Zealand. The name "flexensilla" is derived from the Latin words "flexus," meaning bent, and "cilia," meaning eyelash or tentacle, in reference to the unique, curved tentacles on their bodies.

Anomalopus or flexensilla have a deep-bellied appearance, with broad fins that extend to the edges of their body. They have eight arms that are each covered in suckers and cirri, which aid in their swimming and hunting activities. Two of these arms are much smaller and are modified to form additional retractable appendages.

These cephalopods have also been noted for their ability to capsize themselves and release inks to confuse predators. In this behavior, they expose their underside to perceived threats, then divide their cell chambers and blend into the surrounding environment through releasing black or dark-brown ink. Little is known about their behavior, including if they live in groups, mate, or lay eggs.

Biological and ecological features of flexensilla are currently not well-studied due to their rare occurrence on the seafloor at great depths. As there is limited data and fewer observations of flexensilla by humans, any study or insight into their lives, habitats, and societal behaviors is in the beginning stages of development.