In Search of Giant Squid
Reaching as much as 60 feet or more in length, Architeuthis
- the giant squid, this
awesome dweller of
the seas has spawned fear and tales of terror for centuries. The mere mention
of the giant squid evokes a spine chilling picture. The squid has eight
powerful arms, eyes the size of a human head, two fire hose sized tentacles
covered with barbed suckers used to snatch its prey, and a parrot-like beak.
Despite its reputation, the giant squid has never
been observed alive in its natural habitat. So little is known
about Architeuthis that scientists recognize it as one of the
last great mysteries of the deep. In fact, its probable habitat was
deduced just last year. It is this lack of understanding and knowledge
that has encouraged the stories of a blood thirsty monster lurking
below the surface waiting to attack an unsuspecting ship. Yet,
scientists believe these stories are myths created to explain the
unknown.
To learn more about this fascinating creature, and to prepare yourself for the expedition, you may want to:
Smithsonian Giant Squid Overview Page
gene carl feldman / gene@seawifs.gsfc.nasa.gov