There are over 300 species of squid that are in existence. These 10-armed mollusks are found living in coastal and open ocean waters across the world. Although squid evolved more than 100 million years ago, for centuries squid has been a popular menu item, particularly in Japanese cuisine, as Japan has the highest squid consumption rate across the globe.

Squid have three hearts, two branchial hearts, and one systemic heart. The branchial hearts work to pump blood to the gills where oxygen absorption takes place, then blood flows to the systemic heart where it is pumped throughout the rest of the squid’s body. Their lifespans are quite short, 1-5 years in total, and during this time of maturity, they use a jet propulsion-like technique to swiftly navigate the ocean waters they live in to feed and flee from predators.

Loligo squid is the most widely represented genus of squid and the most popular squid on menus across the globe in a variety of cuisines. It is sought after for its mild and subtle ocean-sweet flavor and its firm meaty texture that allows for culinary versatility.