Few of you will know that exactly 4 years ago, I arrived at university determined to get my degree and begin a career as a Marine Biology. This story basically sums up why: “Amazing specimen of world’s largest squid in NZ.”
The Colossal Squid, Mesonynchoteuthis hamiltoni, is the world’s largest invertebrate. Maximum size is estimated to be 12-14 metres, but the latest specimen is about 10 metres, making it the biggest squid ever seen. It also has the biggest eyes of any creature. You can see from the above pic – the squid struggling to take a toothfish from the longline even as it is hauled in – the tentacles are covered with vicious, swiveling hooks. Add to that an enormous razor-sharp beak and bioluminescence, and you’ve got one of the most formidable deep-sea predators imaginable.
For further information:
- Fishing.net.nz – these pics were posted well before the official release, assuming they show the same animal. Shows a colossal squid alive and struggling.
- NZ Government press release with background info and a high-res photo.
- The Australian article with another photo.
- Tonmo.com - the definitive squid and octopus forum, moderated by world-famous Kiwi giant squid expert, Dr. Steve O’Shea himself.
Very cool. Maybe not enough to get me to switch back to marine biology from IR though!
Dude….that’s one….really…big…squid.
Left by A.E. on February 23rd, 2007