Truth matters. Community matters. Your support makes both possible. LAist is one of the few places where news remains independent and free from political and corporate influence. Stand up for truth and for LAist. Make your year-end tax-deductible gift now.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Jumbo Humboldt squid invade Southern California waters
Like other cephalopods, the Humboldt squid's skin is covered in muscle-bound chromatophores, specialized skin cells that can rapidly change color.
(
cc: Sheraz Sadiq/flickr/KQEDQuest
)
Jumbo squid have invaded Southern California waters and are being caught by sport fishermen by the hundreds.
The squid were first spotted on the surface a few days ago, and a boat captain reported seeing them from as far south as the U.S.-Mexico border to Dana Point in Orange County.
RELATED: Beyond calamari: what to do with all that squid
Fishermen went just four miles from Oceanside Sunday night to reel in 200 Humboldt squid, according to the U-T San Diego.
The squid are feeding on an abundance of krill that has come into the region's water from tidal flows, and they're typically at or near the surface when it's dark.
The Humboldt squid is also called the jumbo squid or jumbo flying squid and squirts ink to protect itself.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive before year-end will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive before year-end will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
