Longfin squid (Loligo pealeii) 

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Biology: Atlantic longfin squid are commercially exploited from Georges Bank to Cape Hatteras, where they are found in continental shelf waters over sand and mud. They live for only nine months and reproduce all year long. They form large feeding schools based on their size. Small squid eat plankton, while larger squid prey on fish, crustaceans, and other squid. Squid migrate offshore in winter.

Sustainability status: Squid populations are healthy and harvest rates are sustainable. More information is available here.

Harvest: Longfin squid are harvested using midwater trawls and floating fish traps.

Nutritional facts: Longfin squid are a good source of riboflavin, vitamin B12, and selenium. A 100-gram portion of longfin squid contains 15.6 grams of protein, 44.8 mcg selenium, 92 calories, 1.38 grams of fat, 233 mg cholesterol, and 44 mg sodium.

Available whole, year round.

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