Galeati Glands

Galeati glands (lat. glandulae galeatae) are paired salivary glands of cephalopods located on the sides of the mouth opening. They were first described by the Italian physician and naturalist Filippo Galeati in 1686.

These glands secrete a mucous secretion that is used by mollusks to create a mucous coating on the shell that helps protect it from external influences. In addition, mucus facilitates the movement of mollusks along the substrate.

Galeati glands are well developed in cephalopods such as cuttlefish, squid and octopuses. In the latter, they reach the largest size and are actively used to release ink in case of danger. The ink creates a cloud that hides the octopus from predators.

Thus, the galeati glands play an important role in the life and protection of cephalopods, especially octopuses. Their discovery and description by Filippo Galeati made a significant contribution to the study of the anatomy and physiology of these amazing marine animals.