Fisheries Infosite

Arrow squid Muriwhenua, Exempt Area (SQUEA)
Maori name
Wheketere (Notodarus spp. (Northern tribes))
Scientific name
Nototodarus sloanii, N. gouldi

Physical characteristics

Two species of Arrow Squid occur in New Zealand, Nototodarus sloanii and Nototodarus gouldi. They can grow to a length of 34 cm, with females being larger than males.

Life cycle

Arrow Squid are fast growing and only live for one year. Spawning occurs between May and July, but may occur at other times as well.

Habitat

Arrow Squid live on the continental shelf of New Zealand at depths up to 500 m.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance Low
Customary significance Low
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025