Scientists have filmed a Colossal Squid in its natural habitat for the first time ever, leaving researchers both stunned and excited.
The footage, captured in the depths of the South Atlantic Ocean, offers an unprecedented glimpse into the life of one of the ocean's most mysterious creatures.
The Colossal Squid, known for its sheer size and elusive nature, has long held an almost mythological status. While not a creature of fantasy, it shares a lineage with the legendary Kraken, sparking imaginations for generations. Despite its fearsome reputation, the specimen captured on film was a juvenile, measuring just 11.8 inches in length.
Nonetheless, scientists estimate that the Colossal Squid can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh as much as 1,100 pounds, making it the largest invertebrate on Earth.
Discovered over a century ago, the Colossal Squid has remained virtually unseen due to the extreme depths and remote areas it inhabits.
The newly captured footage comes from a 35-day expedition in March, led by Dr Michelle Taylor of the University of Essex, who guided a team of researchers exploring uncharted marine environments near the South Sandwich Islands, some 1,968 feet beneath the ocean's surface.
The squid was spotted via a remote-controlled sea probe in a region so isolated that the nearest humans to the scientists were aboard the International Space Station. Dr Taylor described the moment as remarkable, stating the animal was "beautiful and unusual."
Confirmation of the sighting came from Dr Kat Bolstad, who noted that until now, encounters with the species had only occurred through remains found in the stomachs of whales and seabirds.
"It's exciting to see the first in situ footage of a juvenile colossal and humbling to think that they have no idea that humans exist," she said.
Previously, any sightings of the species had been limited to dying adults, with none observed alive at such depth. The Colossal Squid continues to straddle the line between legend and science, with its elusive presence feeding speculation of epic deep-sea battles with whales—echoes of ancient sailor tales about the Kraken.
Although much remains unknown about the Colossal Squid's life cycle, researchers have observed that juveniles lose their transparency as they mature. Notably, the species is armed with rotating hooks on its tentacles, adding to its formidable reputation.
As research advances, scientists hope to uncover more about this enigmatic creature, including its population numbers and habits. For now, the footage marks a significant leap forward in the understanding of a species once thought to be the stuff of legend.
