Also known as Japanese Common Squid, Pacific Flying Squid, Common Flying Squid
Japanese flying squid are remarkable cephalopods famous for their ability to glide through the air for distances up to 30 meters to escape predators or conserve energy during migration. They form massive, fast-moving schools that travel thousands of kilometers annually between their spawning grounds in the East China Sea and feeding areas near northern Japan. Equipped with powerful jet propulsion and specialized fins, they transition seamlessly between rapid swimming and aerial flight.
MarineGlidingMigratory
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
Krill
Lanternfish
Small Anchovies
Predators
Dolphins
Tuna
Seabirds
ThreatsOverfishing, climate change, and shifting ocean currents
HabitatsPelagic ocean waters, from the surface down to 500 meters
Life spanAbout 1 year
Size / weightNot available
Classification
FamilyOmmastrephidae
SpeciesTodarodes pacificus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
Low
Moderate
High
Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Equipped with a sharp, parrot-like beak; handle with care to avoid a painful bite.
Responsible observation
Night observation: Look for them near the surface at night, as they are highly attracted to artificial lights.
Watch for flight: Observe from boats during calm days to catch glimpses of them launching into the air.
Handling caution: Keep fingers away from the central mouth area if handling a landed specimen.
