Squid are cephalopods and belong to the order Teuthida. There
are over 300 different species of squid which share a number of distinct
similarities. Every squid (except for the bigfin squid) has four pairs of arms
and a bilaterally arranged head giving them a distinctly symmetrical appearance. Coming in a wide range of sizes, squid have
two tentacles each and live in seas around the globe.
Other distinguishing
features of the squid are heightened vision which can help them navigate darker
waters and find prey. They have a streamlined nervous system and a mantle on
their heads that attaches to and supports the muscles of the main body. This
mantle encases the body and has two swimming finds attached to the sides. Many
species of squid can change color too protect themselves from predators. Squid
have a syphon on the front of the mantle that acts as their mains means of
locomotion. Squid are jet propelled
from one location to another.
Squid themselves eat small fish and are often a source of
food for humans. Calamari is a popular dish all over the world.