Oegopsida

Oegopsida is a suborder of squid within the order Teuthida. They are characterized by having large eyes, a pair of arms that are longer than the rest, and a funnel that is attached to the head. Oegopds are typically found in deep waters and are known to be fast and agile swimmers.

Illex coindetii

Diamondback Squid – Thysanoteuthis rhombus

Teuthowenia pellucida

Common Names

Oegopds are commonly referred to as "flying squid" due to their ability to leap out of the water. They are also known as "armhook squid" because of the hooked arms they possess. Some species are also called "lantern squid" due to their bioluminescence.

Characteristics

Oegopds have several distinctive features that distinguish them from other squid. These include:

  • Large Eyes: Their eyes are typically large and are often located on the sides of their heads. This provides them with excellent vision in low-light conditions.
  • Longer Arms: Two of their arms are significantly longer than the others and are often used for capturing prey.
  • Hooked Arms: Some species have hooked arms that they use to grip prey.
  • Funnel: Their funnel is attached to the head and is used for propulsion.
  • Bioluminescence: Many oegopds are bioluminescent, meaning they can produce their own light. This is often used for communication, attracting prey, or deterring predators.

Environment

Oegopds are primarily found in deep waters, typically at depths of 200 meters or more. They are often found in the midwater zone, which is the region between the surface and the seafloor. They are found in all oceans of the world, with some species being more common in specific regions.

References

For more information on oegopds, you can refer to the following sources: