The Japanese flying squid (Todarodes pacificus) also referred to as the Japanese common squid is distinguishable from other squids by the rings around the back of their head. These rings are used to determine their age. They swim through the use of a siphon, a muscle that takes water from one side and pushes it another side. The Japanese flying squid is found in the northern regions of the Pacific Ocean, including Japan, China, and Russia. They prefer to live in cool waters and tend to live close to the surface of the water. The Japanese flying squid eats small fish and other squid.