Architeuthis dux

The giant squid, scientifically known as Architeuthis dux, is the largest invertebrate on Earth, with documented lengths exceeding 13 meters (43 feet) for females. Their massive tentacles make up the majority of their body length, while their mantle (body) alone can reach up to 2 meters. They are significantly smaller than their relatives, the Colossal Squid.

Giant squids are deep-ocean dwellers that typically reside in the pelagic zone at depths ranging from 300 to 1,000 meters. They are found in oceans worldwide, though they are most frequently spotted in the deep waters around New Zealand, Japan, and the North Atlantic. Their deep-sea habitat makes them incredibly difficult to study in the wild.

Giant squids are deep-sea predators that use their powerful tentacles and sharp beaks to hunt deep-water fish and other squid species. They also frequently engage in epic battles with sperm whales, which are their primary predators. Scientists have found suction-cup marks and scars on the skin of sperm whales, indicating massive, violent deep-sea clashes.

The giant squid was not successfully filmed alive in its natural deep-sea habitat until July 2012. A team of scientists, including marine biologist Edith Widder and broadcaster Tsunemi Kubodera, used a specialized submersible with a low-light camera and a bioluminescent lure to capture the footage. The historic video was broadcast on the Discovery Channel and NHK in 2013.