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Why Are Squids Dangerous?

A squid can be so small it fits into the palm of your hand, but it can also be so large that only a whale can compare to its size. Squids can spray its adversaries with black ink, mangle them with sharp tentacles and gain the advantage in a skirmish by disappearing before their eyes, using camouflage color techniques. And you aren't necessarily safe from squid if you get to the water's surface.

  1. Size and Aggression

    • Some squid, such as the Humboldt squid can weigh up to 100 pounds and have a length of 6 feet. Also known as jumbo squid, their large size can be a potential danger to divers trying to protect themselves against squid during attacks, which the National Geographic Magazine says are occurring now that this particular squid is expanding into new territory. Fighting off squid this large, which have an aggressive nature that prompts them to even attack sharks in the water, is akin to fighting off a large aggressive person, but under water, where squids have the advantage. Some squid can weigh as much as 1,000 pounds, according to Squid World and the giant squid boasts eyeballs each the size of a basketball. They can be as much as 60 feet in length.

    Coloration and Tentacles

    • Squids have the ability to turn different colors, hiding themselves from predators. But if you are a diver battling a squid such as the Humboldt squid and need to be able to hit back, it is a dangerous complication that the squid can change how it looks, effectively blending in with surroundings as it continues to attack you. In addition, Humboldt squids have sharp tentacles that are barbed, making them a cutting hazard for divers, even if they are wearing protective clothing.

    Flying Capability

    • The Humboldt squid and some other species of this invertebrate can actually fly out of the water, making them dangerous to fleeing people. The squid's funnel and fins both enable it to propel itself out of the water and to glide over its surface, as if it is flying.

    Other Dangers

    • Since squid are considered a social creature, you can encounter a school of squid -- as many as 1,200 in some cases, such as with the Humboldt squid -- which can greatly increase danger if the encounter turns aggressive. Other squid dangers include their speed, which can range from 3 to 15 mph, making it hard to get away from them.

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