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Vampire Squid
Vampyroteutis infernalis
Least Concern
Location
Deep waters worldwide (600-900m depth)
Size
15-30 cm (6-12 inches)
Diet
Carnivore
Habitat
Deep ocean oxygen minimum zones
About This Animal
Despite its ominous name, the vampire squid doesn't drink blood. This living fossil can turn itself inside out when threatened and survives in areas with almost no oxygen. It's neither squid nor octopus but belongs to its own unique order.
Amazing Facts
Can turn itself completely inside out for protection
Survives in oxygen levels as low as 3% (lethal to most marine life)
Has the largest eyes relative to body size of any animal on Earth
Is a living fossil - unchanged for 300 million years
Neither squid nor octopus but in its own taxonomic order