Back to Creature Archive

Vampire Squid

Vampire squid

Deep sea Vampire Squid specimen

Photo by MBARI / CC BY-SA 4.0

Abyssal Stats

Depth

600–900 m (2,000–3,000 ft)

Size

30 cm (12 in)

Habitat

Oxygen Minimum Zone

Diet

Marine snow

What they'd be sayin'

"I am neither a true squid nor an octopus, but the last remaining member of my own unique order."

Think you know the Vampire Squid?

Start Quiz

Deep Sea Profile

A unique 'living fossil' occupying its own biological order, unchanged for 300 million years. It features deep red coloration and webbed arms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it eat?

It scavenges 'marine snow'—detritus falling from the surface.

What is this creature famous for?

Distinctive red eyes and cloak

View on Wikipedia
Take the QuizLibraryWikipedia