Britannica Sources used in this answer

How does a squid steer while using jet propulsion?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Squids steer during jet propulsion primarily by using their funnel, also known as a siphon. This flexible tube functions similarly to a jet nozzle and can be turned in any direction, providing the animal with great flexibility of motion for steering.1

When a squid needs to move, it draws water into its mantle cavity and then forcibly expels it through the funnel by contracting the circular muscles surrounding the cavity. Because the water jet shoots the squid in the direction opposite to that in which the funnel is pointed, the ability to manipulate the orientation of this nozzle allows the squid to control its direction of travel effectively.12