Squid

 

Although there are many species of squid, some of which are the largest invertebrates in the world, they are all Cephalopods.

 

They have a distinctive head, bilateral symmetry, a mantle and tentacles with suckers. Unlike Octopuses, if a tentacle is removed, it will not regenerate. There are 8 tentacles, arranged in pairs, each with a job. There are 2 elongated tentacles to capture food. Squid have a specialized foot called a siphon or hyponome which uses water to move. Squid are very fast swimmers. Squid are fast growing, and most only live 1-2 years. Some are estimated to grow well over 40 feet in length.

 

Unlike Octopuses, that have no bony structures, squid have 1 bone called a coleoid. They also have a beak which they use to kill and tear apart their prey. They exist on a diet of fish and other invertebrates. Squid use camouflage, as well as ink for defense.

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