Glowing Firefly Squid
The firefly squids are diminutive bioluminescent organisms that inhabit the deep waters surrounding the coastline of Japan. Possessing eight arms and two tentacles, each adorned with suckers and hooks, these creatures are also referred to as sparkling enope squids or "hotaru-ika" in Japanese. Their appellation is derived from their resemblance to fireflies.
Amazing World OF Nature
The hue of these organisms varies, with certain specimens displaying a yellow tint, while others exhibit either a white or blue coloration. These creatures emit a potent blue luminescence through the presence of dotted photophores, which are specialized cells responsible for light production, located on their head, mantle, hands, tentacles, and surrounding their eyes. Additionally, their oral cavity displays a dark pigmentation.
Distribution
They live in the western Pacific Ocean.
Habitat
Firefly squids are typically twilight zone inhabitants, dwelling at a depth of 600-1200 ft.
Behaviour.
- Like other squids, they make movements by jet propulsion, using their tentacles.
- In spite of living in the deep ocean, they come to the surface at night either for hunting or for spawning their eggs.
Interesting Facts
- Firefly squids have more than 800 photophores on their body.
- They are edible and considered a delicacy in many countries, especially in Japan.
- They are capable of flashing the lights in countless patterns, either in unison or individually.
- Their largest photophores are always on the tentacles.
- They are the only species of their genus.
- The Toyama Bay in Japan, where the squids annually appear at the time of spawning, is officially announced as a natural monument by the government. The illuminated shoreline is a popular sightseeing destination for thousands of tourists and locals.
- Since the bay is located in a V-shaped canyon, due to some geological reasons, the ocean currents push the squids towards the shore. This incident is known as “squid drowning themselves” by local people.
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