Scientists have recently discovered two new species of dwarf squid measuring only about 1 cm, found in the coral reefs of Japan. These new species bring the total number of known dwarf squid to 8, living in various areas of the Pacific Ocean.
Recently, scientists discovered 2 species of tiny dwarf squid named Kodama and Ryukyuan in Japan, scientifically classified as Hannan.
The Kodama jujutsu species measures only about 1 cm.
Dwarf squid are members of the Idiosepiidae family, possessing the smallest arms and heads in the ocean.
They are not easy to detect due to their extremely small size and nocturnal behavior.
Ryukyuan dwarf squid (Idiosepius kijimuna) were discovered in seagrass beds around the southern islands of Japan.
This species often clings to plants, primarily feeding on shrimp that are much larger than themselves.
They have a fascinating hunting method, sitting still and waiting for shrimp to drift into range before capturing them.
Scientists have observed dwarf squid breeding in captivity, noting their behaviors are quite distinct.
When hatched, the juveniles are relatively large and can hunt shrimp immediately; however, they only live for two or three months. These two new species increase the total number of known dwarf squid to 8, found in various regions of the Pacific Ocean.
