Hovering colour-changers in formation. Schools at safety-stop depth, and dusk mating dances are spectacular.
Bigfin reef squid (Sepioteuthis lessoniana) hover in formation at shallow reef depths, 5–10 metres is common. Schools of 5–20 work together, communicating via flashing colour-pattern changes across their skin.
Mating displays at dusk are extraordinary, males flash territorial patterns while females respond with receptive coloration, and pairs hover side-by-side strobing in synchronised displays. Bali (Tulamben), Andaman, Maldives and Phuket reefs all have evening squid mating sessions.
Safety-stop encounters are common, schools hover near the boat at end of dive. Photograph patiently; they accept divers but spook from flash bursts.
Tap a month to highlight it across destinations, or hover any cell for details.
18 destinations across Goa, Andamans, SE Asia, Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf, East Africa, peak seasons vary by location, so plan your trip around the right destination AND the right month.
Tier 1Reef Squid here: Jan–May, Oct–Dec · 12 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Dec · 30 sites
Tier 1Reef Squid here: Apr–Nov · 35 sites
Tier 1Reef Squid here: Feb–Sep · 25 sites
Tier 1Reef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec · 40 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Nov–Dec · 15 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Apr–Nov · 25 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Jan–May, Dec · 30 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Oct–Dec · 25 sites
Tier 2Reef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Sep–Dec · 20 sites
Tier 4Coming soonReef Squid here: Jan–May, Oct–Dec · 15 sites
Tier 3Reef Squid here: Apr–Nov · 40 sites
Tier 3Coming soonReef Squid here: Jan–Feb, Jul–Dec · 22 sites
Tier 3Coming soonReef Squid here: Apr–Oct · 12 sites
Tier 3Coming soonReef Squid here: Jan–May, Nov–Dec · 20 sites
Tier 3Coming soonReef Squid here: Mar–Oct · 18 sites
Tier 4Coming soonReef Squid here: Apr–May, Sep–Nov · 30 sites
Tier 4Coming soonReef Squid here: Jan–Apr, Oct–Dec · 50 sites
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