Neon flying squid are capable of launching themselves out of the Pacific Ocean and gliding up to 30 metres through the air, according to a research study documenting a shoal of about 100 cephalopods near Tokyo. Researchers captured photographs of the animals utilizing their muscular funnel-shaped organs to jet-propel their bodies above the water’s surface with their ten limbs splayed outwards.
How Neon Flying Squid Propel Themselves Through the Air
The propulsion mechanism relies on an organ known as the hyponome, according to scientific findings. This funnel-like muscular structure forces water out in a jet, driving the squid both through the sea and into the air. Photographs taken by the research vessel approximately 370 miles from Tokyo show the cephalopods suspended above the waves with their arms spread wide.
While the 20-strong flying squid family was previously known to leap from the water based on reports from sailors, the Japanese research expedition provided the first documented photographic proof of sustained gliding behavior. These creatures measure roughly the length of a rolling pin and typically inhabit surface waters to feed on fish and crustaceans.
Speed and Social Behavior in Cephalopods
Beyond aerial gliding, squid demonstrate high-speed movement beneath the surface. Stanford University biologist William Gilly tracked a tagged Humboldt squid—the largest of the flying squid—swimming at 10 metres per second, equivalent to 36km/h, while evading sea lions.
Did you know? While octopuses are generally solitary and territorial creatures that often kill one another in shared tank environments, squid exhibit much more social behavior. According to William Gilly, a single squid left on its own tends to act jittery and nervous, preferring the company of a group.
The neon flying squid species also features a distinct golden or silver-coloured stripe down the middle of its underside. Researchers suggest this stripe may function as a form of camouflage in the open ocean environments of the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans where these highly migratory animals travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do flying squid jump out of the water?
While the exact trigger for synchronized group flights remains unclear, researchers suggest that one possible explanation was that they were evading a predator, such as a shark.
How far can flying squid glide?
Documented observations near Tokyo recorded a shoal of neon flying squid gliding for about 30 metres alongside a research vessel after rising unexpectedly from the Pacific Ocean.
What organs do squid use to fly?
Squid use a funnel-like muscular organ called a hyponome to force water out in a jet, propelling their bodies through both water and air.
Join the Invertebrate Conversation
Do you have thoughts on amazing marine species or want to share your ideas for upcoming features? Send an email to the news desk at [email protected] with Invertebrate in the subject line to get involved.
Related reading