Variations on a Theme

Scientists estimate there are about 500 species of squids, ranging in length from about 2.5 cm (1 in.) to 18 m (60 ft). Despite differences in size and shape, all work basically the same way inside.

Idiosepius pygmaeus
mantle length
to 2 cm (0.8 in.)
Promachoteuthis megaptera
mantle length
to 5 cm (2 in.)
Watasenia scintillans
mantle length
to 7 cm (2.8 in.)
Leachia atlantica
mantle length
to 11 cm (4.3 in.)
Ctenopteryx sicula
mantle length
to 15 cm (5.9 in.)
Lycoteuthis diadema
mantle length
to 15 cm (5.9 in.)
Chiroteuthis calyx
mantle length
to 20 cm (7.9 in.)
Cranchia scabra
mantle length
to 20 cm (7.9 in.)
Batoteuthis scolops
mantle length
to 20 cm (7.9 in.)
Histioteuthis bonnellii
mantle length
to 33 cm (13 in.)
Loligo pealeii
mantle length
to 50 cm (19.7 in.)
Taonius pavo
mantle length
to 54 cm (21.3 in.)







Ocean Planet Exhibition Floorplan

Smithsonian Giant Squid Overview Page

gene carl feldman / gene@seawifs.gsfc.nasa.gov