The giant squid (genus: Architeuthis)
is a deep-ocean dwelling squid in the family Architeuthidae, represented by as many as eight species. Giant
squid can grow to a tremendous size (see Deep-sea gigantism): recent estimates
put the maximum size at 13 m (43 ft) for females and 10 m (33 ft) for males
from the posterior fins to the tip of the two long tentacles (second only to
thecolossal squid at an estimated 14 m (46 ft),[1] one of the largest living
organisms). The mantle is about 2 m (6.6 ft) long (more for females, less for
males), and the length of the squid excluding its tentacles is about 5 m (16
ft). Claims of specimens measuring 20 m (66 ft) or more have not been
scientifically documented.
On 30 September 2004, researchers from the National Science Museum of
Japan and the Ogasawara
Whale Watching Associationtook the first images of a
live giant squid in its natural habitat. Several of the 556 photographs were
released a year later. The same team successfully filmed a live adult giant
squid for the first time as it was brought aboard on 4 December 2006. A live adult was first filmed in its natural habitat
off Chichi-jima in July 2012 by a joint NHK/Discovery Channel team. An almost intact 400 pound (180 kg.)
carcass washed ashore near the Spanish community of Cantabria during October,
2013.
Another creature in which the existence of it is still in debate will be show on the video below.
