The Caribbean Reef Squid (Sepioteuthis sepioidea) is the most common species of squid across the Cayman Islands. Divers and snorkelers can often see them traveling together in groups of 2 or more, usually in shallower areas of the reef less than 30 feet. Here are some “squidy” fun facts:
- Adults grow up to 8” long and are semelparous—females die after laying eggs and males die shortly after fertilizing them
- Have 3 hearts that pump blue blood due to a copper-containing protein called hemocyanin
- Able to change color instantly (multiple colors or half and half)—useful for hunting, camouflage, and attracting a mate
- Have the largest eye-to-body ratio in the animal kingdom
- Can bioluminescence during the day or night
- Can be blinded at night by dive lights, making them more vulnerable to predators
Learn more about our marine environment and creatures from Katie Correia, Science & Education Manager at Central Caribbean Marine Institute, Little Cayman Research Center. For more info on the CCMI, visit www.reefresearch.org.