Functional Anatomy: Macroscopic Anatomy and Post-mortem Examination

Abstract

Understanding the relationship between form and function of living beings is an intimidating challenge. The recognition and interpretation of physiological and pathological processes require a previous knowledge of regular morphology and anatomy of the external and internal structures and organs of any living creature. Cephalopods span an awesome range of shapes and scales, and the variations between species are crucial for correct interpretations. This chapter covers the gross morphological and anatomical main characteristics of different cephalopod species, as well as necropsy protocols and methods of euthanasia. This knowledge is decisive to a suitable understanding of the modifications caused by injury, infection, or disease, especially for those people who are not familiar with these remarkable marine molluscs.