Friday Squid Blogging: Neon Flying Squid
The neon flying squid can fly in formation. The shoal of about 100 squid rose unexpectedly from a patch of the Pacific Ocean around 370 miles from Tokyo and glided near the boat for about 30 metres. The astonished researchers were the first to capture photographs of such a thing, which looked like the early stages of an alien invasion. They were probably neon flying squid ( Ommastrephes bartramii…
On Friday, researchers witnessed a mesmerizing aerial display as a flock of around 100 neon flying squid emerged from the Pacific Ocean, roughly 370 miles off the coast of Tokyo. These bioluminescent creatures were seen gliding near a boat for approximately 30 meters, leaving the astonished scientists in awe. The first-ever photographs of such an event were captured, revealing the squids' unique abilities, which resembled the beginnings of an extraterrestrial invasion.
The researchers identified the species responsible for this astonishing spectacle as the neon flying squid (Ommastrephes bartramii). This particular squid belongs to a family of 20 flying squids, previously known for their ability to leap from the water but until now, only suspected of being capable of gliding above it as well. To achieve this remarkable feat, the neon flying squid utilizes its hyponome, a funnel-like muscular organ found in other cephalopods, such as octopuses. This organ propels the squid both underwater and out of the sea by expelling water in a jet.
During the observation, the researchers noticed that the gliding squid displayed their arms splayed outwards, creating a distinctive appearance. This observation further supports the findings in the subsequent study, which suggests that the neon flying squid's unique gliding abilities are not uncommon within its family.
The incident has sparked interest in the scientific community, as it sheds light on the mysterious capabilities of the neon flying squid and its relation to other flying squid species. For those interested in the latest security-related news, this squid post can also serve as a platform to discuss other pressing stories in the world of cybersecurity.
Written by urgent.news from Schneier on Security's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
