We have all heard of the Giant Squid, Architeuthis dux,. A marine creature of near mythical proportions. Now imagine a squid that is on average, at least as large as the largest Giant Squid. That is the Colossal Squid, Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni. Colossal Squid grow to a maximum of 46 feet compared to the 39 feet for the giant squid. They are aggressive predators known to attack Sperm Whales. They have been described as not only larger, but a magnitude meaner than Giant Squid. Colossal Squid have the largest eyes in the animal kingdom. Calamari made from their tentacles would be the size of tractor tires. They weigh half a ton. Their beak and claws rival those of the fiercest land predator.
Recently, New Zealand fisherman led by Jim Anderton fishing off the coast of Antarctica caught an adult male Colossal Squid weighing 990 lbs, and measuring an amazing 39 feet long. The species was discovered in 1925 when two arms were found inside the stomach of a sperm whale. The only other specimen found was a 13 foot long immature female discovered in 1981. The squid was caught while feasting on 8 ft long Chilean Sea Bass.
The Colossal Squid has a gruesome reputation. Giant squid are believed to be the basis of ancient sea myths, such as the Kracken of Norwegian lore. A giant squid attack on a French naval vessel inspired Jules Verne’s novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. A World War II naval vessel has even reported being attacked by a giant squid while sinking, claiming one of their own was eaten in the attack. Colossal Squid also have a mean reputation with marine scientists. Colossal Squid have been known to have been known to attack the massive Sperm Whale. Sperm Whale’s have often been found with huge scars from Colossal Squid hooks and beaks on their backs, as well as Colossal Squid parts in their stomachs. Although this aggression may be nothing compared to what may happen in the future.
Research has shown a recent trend of Squid growing bigger quicker as the water temperature increases. A correlation has shown that for every 1 degree Celsius increase in water temperature, the average juvenile squid doubles in size. This has only been proven in more manageable sizes of normal squid, but the trend may apply to Giant and Colossal Squid. If this is true, the next Colossal Squid found may take a coupe fishermen down with it. This could be the next danger of global warming. Watch out!