Also known as Jumbo Squid, Jumbo Flying Squid, Red Devil, Diablo Rojo
Humboldt squid are formidable marine predators that hunt in coordinated packs throughout the deep waters of the eastern Pacific. They communicate and coordinate hunts using rapid, flashing color changes from deep red to bright white, earning them the nickname red devils. Armed with powerful tentacles lined with sharp, tooth-bearing suckers and a massive, parrot-like beak, they migrate vertically hundreds of meters every day to feed.
Deep SeaPredatoryPack Hunter
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—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
Lanternfish
Sardines
Smaller Squid
Predators
Sperm Whales
Large Sharks
Billfish
ThreatsOverfishing, warming ocean temperatures, and acidification
HabitatsPelagic ocean waters and the deep mesopelagic zone
Life span1 to 2 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
FamilyOmmastrephidae
SpeciesDosidicus gigas
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 powerful beak and sharp suckers; maintain a safe distance when diving.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses a massive, razor-sharp beak and hundreds of suckers lined with sharp teeth capable of inflicting severe lacerations.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a large, torpedo-shaped body flashing rapidly between deep red and white, often in groups.
What to do
Never attempt to touch or handle a live squid, and exit the water if they display aggressive feeding behavior.
Responsible observation
Observe from Boats: Watch for them flashing near the surface at night under vessel lights.
Diver Caution: Avoid night dives in areas with active feeding frenzies to prevent accidental bites.
Respect the Beak: Never handle live specimens, as their powerful beaks can easily crush bone.
