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The Humboldt squid's astonishing appearance: How does it catch its prey at a speed of 15 feet (4.5 meters)?
The Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas), also known as the giant squid, giant flying squid or "Pota" or "Jibia" in South American Spanish, is a large predatory squid found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The squid is the only known species of the genus Dosidicus in the family Ommastrephidae and typically reaches a body length of 1.5 meters, making it the largest member of the family. As one of the most important squids in the global commercial fishery, the Humboldt squid is mainly caught in Chile, Peru and Mexico. However, due to the rise in water temperatures in the Gulf of California in 2015, the fishery collapsed and has not recovered yet.
Humboldt squids are known for their swift hunting abilities and stunning appearance. They have color-changing cells that allow them to quickly change their body color, an ability known as metachrosis.
The living habits of the Humboldt squid are also quite interesting. They usually live at depths of 200 to 700 meters, from Tierra del Fuego all the way to California, and are a social creature, with each group containing up to 1,200 individuals. Studies have shown that Humboldt squids swim at a speed of 24 kilometers per hour and have the ability to migrate vertically day and night, staying in deep waters during the day and rising to the surface to hunt at night.
Amazing predation habits
The Humboldt squid's hunting method is quite amazing, and its main characteristics are quick reaction and powerful catching ability. Their two long tentacles are able to extend outward at incredible speeds and firmly grasp prey with their suction cups before pulling it back into their powerful beaks for biting. Each squid's suction cup is surrounded by sharp teeth, which enable them to effectively tear open the flesh of their prey.
This squid displays amazing speed when hunting. These three actions - reaching, grasping and tearing - can be completed almost in an instant, making them a marine predator that cannot be underestimated.
The Humboldt squid's diet consists of small fish (especially lantern fish), crustaceans, and other squid. According to the analysis, the remains of other squids were found in the stomachs of about a quarter of the squids. This diet not only promotes their rapid growth, but also shows the predatory behavior of this squid during hunting.
The relationship between scientific research and human beings
The Humboldt squid's range stretches from Tierra del Fuego to California, and recently even expanded northward to British Columbia, Canada. This change is believed to be related to rising water temperatures and changes in fish habitats. For humans, the fishery value of Humboldt squid has attracted countless fishermen and formed a large-scale commercial fishing industry. From the 1990s to 2019, the Humboldt squid became the most popular squid worldwide, accounting for one-third of the total catch.
In commercial fishing, fishermen use "shaking", a method of catching squid at night using bright lights to attract them. Like most marine life, the fishing process for Humboldt squid requires caution to prevent the ecological impact of overfishing.
While the Humboldt squid is known for its hungry nature, its aggressive behavior when feeding has earned it the nickname "Red Devil." Is this due to the species' instincts or some environmental factor? Influence?
Any discussion about the Humboldt squid cannot ignore its impact on humans. Many fishermen and divers have reported being attacked by this squid, which has given the Humboldt squid a prominent role in local lore. Nevertheless, scientists' research on this shows that the squids' aggressive behavior mainly occurs during hunting, and they are relatively mild at other times.
Sustainable development and the future
As ocean acidification caused by global climate change, many scientists are concerned that the survival of the Humboldt squid will face challenges. Studies have shown that the future marine environment will have an impact on the metabolism and life activities of squid. These changes will in turn affect relationships with people, particularly in relation to fisheries and ecological regulation.
The Humboldt squid not only plays an important role in the ecosystem, but is also an important species in marine biological research. By studying this squid, scientists can obtain valuable data about marine biodiversity and environmental change.
In many places, displays and documentaries about the Humboldt squid have attracted a large number of viewers, deepening people's understanding and interest in this unique creature. Is this a miracle of nature, or an ecological symbol that requires further study and protection?
