The Japanese flying squid is a major seafood species around Japan and Korea. It has a long, narrow body with a short diamond-shaped fin near the rear.

Appearance

Appearance
The body is long and narrow, with a short diamond-shaped fin near the rear. Adults commonly have a body length around 12 in (30 cm), excluding the arms.

Where it lives

Typical habitats
  • North Pacific open water
  • coastal waters
Range
It is most abundant around Japan, Korea, China, and nearby seas. Its reported range includes southern Alaska.

Behavior

Diet
In the Sea of Japan, young squid eat small ; as they grow, fish become more important food.
Activity
It migrates through open and coastal waters.

Life cycle

Breeding season
In the western Pacific, different groups spawn at different times of year.
Lifespan
Most live about one year and die after breeding.

Name and classification

About the name
Japanese flying squid is also called Japanese common squid.

Conservation

IUCN Red List
LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction
Japanese Flying Squid (Todarodes pacificus) — identification, habitat & look-alikes | Moeyo