Ommastrephes bartramii is a large pelagic squid in the family Ommastrephidae, widely distributed in temperate and subtropical oceans of the Pacific and Atlantic. It is commonly known as the neon flying squid due to its ability to propel itself above the water’s surface in gliding escapes. The genus name Ommastrephes derives from Greek roots meaning “eye” (omma) and “turning” or “twisting” (strepho), likely referring to swivel-like motion of its eyes, while the species epithet bartramii honors the American naturalist William Bartram. In Japanese it is known as aka-ika (赤いか, “red squid”), reflecting the reddish hue of its mantle.

This species inhabits offshore, midwater environments and undertakes seasonal migrations, forming large schools that support significant commercial fisheries, particularly in the North Pacific. It has an elongated mantle, powerful fins, and well-developed tentacles adapted for active predation on fish and smaller cephalopods. Ommastrephes bartramii is valued for its firm mantle meat, which is consumed grilled, simmered, dried, or processed into sliced seafood products. In Japan and China it is also used for dried squid preparations and seasoned snack products.

Nutritionally, the edible mantle is high in protein and low in fat, containing essential amino acids and marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. Like other cephalopods, it contains taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid important in human physiology, and cholesterol in moderate amounts. Proper handling is required to maintain texture and prevent spoilage due to the activity of endogenous proteolytic enzymes.