Caribbean Reef Squid

The Caribbean Reef Squid belongs to the family Loliginodae. This cephalopod is native to the Caribbean Sea (sometimes off the coast of Florida). The Reef squid has a torpedo-shaped body with fins that extend the entire length of the body and will undulate rapidly as they swim. Unlike octopus that have just 8 arms, the squid has 8 arms and 2 tentacles. All 10 appendages are “fixed to its head”. This species of squid has a broad and less streamlined body than other squids, resembling the cuttlefish more. The reef squid's basic color is a medium green to brown on their dorsal and a lighter color on the ventral side to camouflage itself. Reef squids are social creatures and are often found in small groups. Just like the cuttlefish, the reef squid can control its pigment in their skin to communicate. They will use this adaptation to produce color to flash in spots, blotches, or a whole solid color. When these squids retreat from predators, they will change their pigment to look pale, making them hard to see. The squids will seek refuge in the coral and squirt ink when they are trying to escape a predator. If you see some reef squids near the coral, they will often turn a dark brown or reddish color to blend in with their surroundings. Another unique behavior this squid has is how they swim. Reef squids will point their body upward or vertically before they attack their prey or curl their body upward to defend itself or its territory in hostile situations. If they are met with a predator in the open ocean, they will point their body head down, and retreat to safety.

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