1. The Squid
Click Here to Begin

2. Table of Contents Cover Page Classification Habitat Predators and Prey
Anatomy and Physiology
Threats to the Squid
Works Cited

3. Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Mollusca Class: Cephalopoda
Bathyteuthis abyssicola
Classification
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Mollusca
Class:
Cephalopoda
Order:
Teuthida
Family, Genus, & Species:
There are over 300 known species of squid, coming in all shapes and sizes.
Onychoteuthis banksii
Pterygioteuthis giardi

4. Habitat
The habitat of the squid depends on the species, size, and stage of development the squid is in. Squid can be found in almost any salt water region of the world in both the shallows and in depths up to 9,000m. However, some species have been known to move into fresh water in search of food.
Learn more about the Giant Squid and why it has been so illusive to scientists. CLICK THE IMAGE ABOVE.

5. Predators & Prey Prey Predators
Squid dine mostly on fish, crustaceans such as shrimp, and other squid
See a squid in action by clicking on the image below:
Squid are precious food sources for large fish, sea birds, sharks, and even sperm whales
Squid is served as a delicacy in many parts of the world, where it is referred to as Calamari

6. Anatomy & Physiology

7. Feeding and Digestion Squid have 8 legs
Squid grab prey with suction clubs on the end of the tentacles and pulling them into their legs.
Stab prey with sharp beaks
Prey is further broken down by the radula
Once the food is shredded, their muscular tongue helps direct it down the digestive tract.

8. Other Important Structures
Mantle covers the body
Gill like slits for respiration
Contains a siphon for jet propulsion
Skin covered in chromatophores
Change color to match surrounding
Ink sac provides further protection
See the amazing camouflaging abilities and use of ink glands in cephalopods by click on the picture above.

9. Ecological Threats to Squid
The main threat to squid is commercial fishing
Overharvesting mature squid populations
Fishing boats can destroy squid egg deposits
Squid Harvest on US West Coast

10. Works Cited
Fish Watch: Market Squid National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Octopus and Squid World Wildlife Federation. 17 Feb
Rare Photos: Giant Squid Eaten by Sperm Whale National Geographic.
Squid Exploring Nature Educational Resource. 17 Feb
Squid Fact and Information Squid World.