The six species of commercially important squid in the Southeastern Fisheries Region, (Loligo pealei, Dorytheuthis plei, Lolliguncula brevis, Illex illecebrosus, I. coindeti and I. oxygonius) show separate seasonal distribution patterns and depth and temperature preferences. With the exception of Lolliguncula brevis, major concentrations are associated with topographic features which cause upwellings, such as the Charleston Bump, and resulting nutrient rich waters or nutrient laden waters around the delta of the Mississippi River. Anecdotal information from surveys and commercial fishermen support the presence of considerable stocks of squid in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic coasts of Florida and the Carolinas
