European Squid (Loligo vulgaris)

Natural science changed dramatically towards the end of the 16th century, with greater emphasis placed on insights derived from personal observations. In line with this, De Boodt, too, adopted a precise and encyclopaedic approach. The European squid depicted here is readily identifiable by the two long sucker-covered arms with which it can catch its prey. However, the draughtsman seems to have made a mistake: this squid has one tentacle too many.