Introduction to Squids

There are more than 300 different types of squid that have been identified around the world. However, it is believed that many more exist out there. We simply haven’t been able to find them all and to identify them all yet. Those that we do know about have evolved along with other mollusks.

They only live in the water but can be found in a variety of locations where the temperatures are from one range to the next. Their bodies are very soft which is why they tend to make a nice meal for so many predators.

Top Squid Facts Some of the larger squid can weigh more than 1,000 pounds.

The ink sac can be triggered to release this black substance very rapidly. More Squid Facts…

The overall size of a squid can vary depending on the species. Some of them are only 24 inches long while others are more than 40 feet in length. The heaviest squid found was in 2007 around New Zealand. It was more than 1,000 pounds! They body of a squid may seem very unique, but it definitely serves its purpose in the water.

As a squid moves through the water, they stretch in the mantel area. This is going to force water to be moved through the funnel. You will notice that they move tail first through the water. They are very quick as well as agile in the water. When a squid feels that they are in danger they release a dark color of ink as they try to make their rapid escape.

The overall look and design of a squid will depend on the species that it belongs to. There are more than 300 of them that have been scientifically identified. Depending on their size, they can consume a variety of meat items in the water. Some species are much more aggressive than others so they go after larger prey.

It can be fun as well as educational to look at photos of the different types of squid. You will be able to see first hand the differences in their appearance as well as their size. Many people don’t realize that what they may see in the water is a squid though because one species can look so different from others they have previously identified.

It is believed that the squid is one of the invertebrates that has the highest level of intelligence. They are extremely active and they seem to do quite well when it comes to adapting to the changing environment around them. Some people wonder why they are considered to be mollusks. It is due to the horny plate they have that is buried under the mantle.