First Live Image: Researchers captured the first-ever video of a live juvenile colossal squid in its natural habitat (2,000 feet deep in the South Atlantic) since its identification in 1925. Footage released April 15.
Elusive Nature: Colossal squids are difficult to spot due to their large, sensitive eyes and avoidance of bright, loud research equipment. Limited knowledge exists about their diet, lifespan, and reproduction.
Limited Knowledge Source: Most information comes from dead specimens found in whales/seabirds or young ones in trawl nets.
Colossal Squid Traits: Largest known invertebrate, reaching up to 14m (23 feet) and 500 kg. Found in Antarctic waters, deep-sea predator feeding on large fish and other squids. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Distinctive Features: Massive eyes (largest in animal kingdom), powerful swivelling hooks on tentacles.
Comparison to Giant Squid: Colossal squids have shorter arms/tentacles compared to the longer, more slender giant squid.
Size Advantage: Large size reduces predation and increases prey options. Only Sperm Whales prey on them at full maturity.
Significance of Sighting: The video footage provides valuable data to understand the colossal squid’s life cycle, habitat, and behavior. It can also inform decisions about deep-sea activities like mining.
Filling Knowledge Gaps: Sighting the juvenile can help fill some of the missing puzzle pieces to the life history of this very mysterious animal.
