Existing at a depth of 650 (2,132 feet) to at least 1,500 meters (4,921 feet), the vampire squid (literally, "vampire squid from hell"), in spite of its name, is actually a harmless animal that lives suspended in the dark strata of the oceans, sometimes unfurled in a typical umbrella posture.

Like other animals living at such great depth, its musculature is much reduced, although it is capable of surprising bursts of speed over short distances. When fleeing an enemy, it may create confusion by activating its various bioluminescent organs.