The elusive colossal squid, a creature so mysterious that most of what we know comes from its remains found in whale stomachs, has been captured on camera in its natural habitat for the first time. This incredible moment took place in March 2025, when researchers aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, Falkor, filmed a juvenile squid nearly 2,000 feet below the surface of the South Atlantic Ocean.
The breakthrough footage, recorded using the remotely operated vehicle SuBastian, is a game-changer for deep-sea research. Until now, colossal squids—massive creatures that can grow to 23 feet long and weigh over a thousand pounds—have remained largely invisible in their natural environment. Scientists have only encountered them as prey remains or in rare sightings from fishing nets.
So, why is this footage, recently shared by Schmidt Ocean Institute, so significant? To understand that, let’s dive into the world of colossal squids.
What is a Colossal Squid?
A member of the Cranchiidae family, also known as “glass squids,” the colossal squid is among the most mysterious and formidable creatures of the deep sea. Their transparent bodies, large eyes, and terrifying tentacles—armed with hooks—are designed to help them survive in the harsh environment of the Antarctic waters they call home.
These creatures are famous for their ability to grow larger than giant squids, which are their close relatives, although the latter are longer. Colossal squids are the heaviest invertebrates on Earth, making them a fascinating subject of study. Despite their size, they have been difficult to study due to their remote location and sensitive nature that causes them to avoid bright, loud research equipment.
How Did Scientists Capture the Footage?
Filming a creature this elusive requires a combination of patience, advanced technology, and a little bit of luck. The research team aboard Falkor was conducting an expedition focused on discovering new marine life when they used SuBastian, an underwater vehicle equipped with cameras, to explore the depths. Dr. Kat Bolstad, an expert in squid biology, helped verify the identity of the juvenile squid in the footage.
The colossal squid’s shy nature likely explains why it has never been filmed before. Its sensitive eyes and tendency to freeze in response to threats, like bright lights and loud noises from research equipment, make it an expert at avoiding detection.
What Does This Mean for Deep-Sea Research?
The significance of this discovery goes beyond just the thrill of seeing a colossal squid in action. The footage provides scientists with their first-ever look at a squid in its natural environment, offering new insights into its behavior, feeding habits, and early life stages. Researchers can now gather critical information about the squid’s lifespan, diet, and development, which had previously been little more than speculation.
Moreover, this breakthrough could open doors for future deep-sea explorations. Understanding how colossal squids live and thrive in such extreme conditions could lead to new knowledge about the deep-sea ecosystem as a whole.
Final Thoughts
For over 100 years, the colossal squid has been one of the most enigmatic creatures in the ocean. Now, thanks to groundbreaking research and technology, we are beginning to unlock the mysteries of this giant of the deep. This footage is not only a win for science but a reminder of how much there is still left to discover beneath the waves.
