Common names
Calamari
Reef squid
Sepioteuthis
- Saltwater
Max length511.75 in
Common length23.5 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight1091 lb 5 oz
Max age15 years
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
Short description
Squid are sea creatures with a long, soft body and large eyes. Their head and foot are located at one end of their body, which is the front part used for moving through water. They have eight arms and two distinct tentacles around their mouth, each with flexible appendages and disc-like suckers. The main body is enclosed in a mantle with swimming fins on each side, though these fins are not the primary means of movement for most species. Inside, they have a shell called a gladius or "pen" that provides support and structure. The mantle cavity contains gills and openings for waste, digestion, and reproduction. Water is drawn into the mantle cavity through an inhalant siphon behind the funnel, which the squid uses for precise jet propulsion. This allows them to move quickly and efficiently through the water.
Habitat
Squid have a very varied habitat, with some species living in intertidal estuaries and shallow coastal waters while others live in some of the deepest parts of the ocean. However, there are no species of squid that are found in freshwater, so you won't find them in rivers, ponds or lakes.
Distribution
Squid can be found in all oceans around the world.
Behaviour
Squid are carnivores primarily dining on fish and crustaceans. They're even known to be cannibalistic, especially when they're trapped in nets. With their long tentacles, they snatch their prey, while their eight arms help to hold and control it. Using their beak, they then slice the food into smaller bits that they can easily swallow. Squid are speedy swimmers, and certain species can "fly" for short distances out of the water. They're capable of changing colour to blend in with their surroundings or to communicate. Some species are bioluminescent, using their light for counter-illumination camouflage, while others can release a cloud of ink to divert attention from themselves.
Edibility
Squid is used in various cuisine's and there's very little waste compared to fish or shellfish. The body (mantle), tentacles, and ink is all edible and can be prepared and cooked to suit everyone's taste.
Lure suggestion
Pink and orange jigs with rainbow patterns or silver bases are essential. These versatile jigs work wonders once the sun is up, offering reliable performance throughout the day. Designed to mimic fish, they boast an eye-catching glow and feature one or two rows of sharp points that allow them to be reeled in when squid bite. Additionally, blue cloths adorned with silver foils excel in clear waters. Squids are particularly drawn to specific areas such as small reef patches, mussel beds, kelp beds, seagrass meadows, and man-made fish attractors.
Similar species
Other similar species
Cuttlefish