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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