File photo of a Flying Squid species in mid-air, roughly 100 nm North of Tristan Da Cunha in the South Atlantic Ocean (© Anthony Pierce/SplashdownDirect/Rex Features)

Neon flying squid is both real and a real winner in the evolution game

2/12/2013

You'd think the eternal question "Can squids fly?" would yield an obvious answer of no. Right? But in some cases, the answer is in fact yes, they can fly — and super-fast, too. Japanese researchers say Neon Flying Squid can launch themselves more than 100 feet through the air at nearly 37 feet per second, which is faster than Usain Bolt can run. The creatures’ flying ability has long been rumored, but now there's photographic proof and with it an explanation: The squid propel themselves into the air by shooting a jet of water and then glide by assuming "a highly developed flying posture." So if you see one, assume your highly developed ducking posture. [Source]

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