Usually, the only contact we have with squid is the deep-fried version on a plate with a side order of marinara dipping sauce. Some call squid gross; others call it a delicacy. Some call squid fascinating. Scientists have been researching these creatures for years, especially the monster squid that lives in the deepest parts of the ocean.

For centuries, tales of massive sea monsters have amused people all over the world. So far, the only evidence scientists have of giant squids have been the scars on the hides of sperm whales. No one has ever seen a giant squid alive. 

A recent Discovery documentary chronicled several scientists’ search to find a live colossal squid to study. One Japanese scientist almost captured one squid on film. Its 20-foot long tentacle caught on the camera’s hook, providing the only physical evidence of the beast to date. The squid’s struggle was also caught on film. Another scientist took a different approach and tried to capture young squid with the hopes of raising them in captivity. They didn’t survive for very long.

Recently, a group of anglers from New Zealand hooked the prize. Officials claim the squid is 39 ft. long and weighs an estimated 990 lbs! Can you imagine that size? Let’s put it in perspective; one of the fishermen said that if this colossus squid was cut for calamari rings, the rings would be the size of tractor wheels. 

Who says space is the final frontier? With creatures like this living in the ocean, what else could we find down there?

Full story and pictures.

Posted by Deb.