Purple Stubby Squid Spotted off the Coast of California
Posted on August 17, 2016
Scientists aboard the E/V Nautilus spotted this cute purple stubby squid (Rossia pacifica) off the coast of California. The squid was located at a depth of 900 meters (2,950 feet). These squid have also been seen at depths of 1,300 meters.
The scientists say the squid are are not a true squid and are more closely related to the cuttelfish. They are known for their ability to hide as the burrow into the sand. They release a sticky mucus jacket that helps sand and sediment stick to their body for camouflage.
The Cephalod Page entry for the Stubby squid says the squid sit out at the bottom at night and can become transfixed by a diver's bright light like a deer caught in the headlights of a car. That appears to be what happened to this little squid. It can be seen staring up at the ROV with its large eyes. Take a look: