Firefly Squids

The scientific name of Firefly Squids is Watasenia scintillans.

This squid is the only known species of cephalopod in which evidence of color vision has been founded. The squid is equipped with special light-producing organs called photophores. These type of squids spends their day time at depths of several hundred metres, returning to the surface when night falls. They grow to a length of 7 cm. The presence of sparkling enope squid was found in the Western Pacific ocean at depths of  600–1200 feet.

Firefly squids had gets the name from the hundreds of bioluminescent photophores that cover its whole body.   Firefly squids have so many advantages with its light emitting photophores. These are flashed or emitted to warn off predators and also used to communicate with other squid. They can be used to communicate with potential mates or rivals. Firefly squid live for about one year.

They may also be used to disguise the squid's shape and confuse predators, allowing it to escape. The firefly squid is an active predator. It is believed that the squid can use their blue colour lights to attract its prey. By flashing the blue lights on and off, they can attract small fish and then pounce on them with the help of their powerful tentacles.

Interesting Facts About Firefly Squids.


1. firefly squids can see colour.

2. firefly squids have over 800 lights on their body.

3. firefly squids gather by millions or billions to mate.

4. firefly squids live for about one year.

5. firefly squids can blend in with shadows.

6. firefly squids are commercially fished in Japan.