The little Caribbean Reef Squid has to be one of cutest reef creatures out there. They can either be seen singly, or in medium to large groups and are usually quite fascinated by nearby divers or snorkellers, holding their position while intensely staring. They will often assume a defensive posture (which is especially cute) and hold up their arms in a karate-like formation in an attempt to look threatening. It would probably work if they were a little bigger, but it has to be said that it always makes ones heart melt.
As with all squid, this species (Sepioteuthis sepioidea) is capable of rapid colour changes which it can reportedly use to communicate with one another, especially during courtship rituals. Feeding on small fish, crustaceans and molluscs, the Caribbean Reef Squid is found throughout the Caribbean Sea, and up through the Bahamas and tropical coast of the US. It is the most common species of squid sighted by divers on coral reef habitats as it comes inshore to these areas during its breeding season. If you are lucky enough to interact with one, try a slow approach and gently extend a friendly hand. You will know when you are too close for comfort as the squid will puff a little dark ink cloud at you and dart quickly away.
For more information on these fascinating creatures click here.
About Reef Creature Clothing
We specialise in not only coral reef inspired athleisure wear, but also beach & swim wear, and other printed products. All our colourful and vibrant designs are made using digitally enhanced prints of real underwater photographs taken in the Caribbean. We donate all of our profits after costs to The Coral Reef Research Hub, a small non-profit organisation that seeks to help fund research projects undertaken by early career coral reef scientists. The projects funded are those that aim to contribute information that will hopefully lead to legislative change, and thus help to protect coral reefs and their associated resources for generations to come!
We write these regular ‘creature features’ to help you learn more about the fascinating inhabitants of the coral reefs where our images came from. More will continue to be posted over the coming months so watch this space!