Colossal squid filmed alive in Antarctica 100 years after first discovery

Marine scientists have, for the first time, recorded a live colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) in its natural environment, nearly a century after the species was first discovered.

The footage, captured at a depth of around 1,968 feet on March 9 by the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s remotely operated vehicle “SuBastian,” shows a juvenile squid roughly one foot long swimming near Antarctica.

“This is the first in situ footage of a juvenile colossal squid, and it’s thrilling to finally observe this elusive species alive,” said Dr Kat Bolstad, a marine biologist at Auckland University of Technology who helped verify the identification.

Colossal squids are known for their massive size and are among the ocean’s most mysterious creatures. Adults can grow up to 23 feet and weigh over 1,100 pounds, with their deep-sea habitat making them notoriously difficult to study.

Until now, knowledge about the species came mostly from remains found in the stomachs of predators like sperm whales. Their large, sensitive eyes and tendency to remain motionless may have helped them avoid detection by cameras and bright research lights, researchers said.

The squid, classified under the Cranchiidae family or “glass squids,” appeared transparent and featured tell-tale hooks on its tentacles—one of the species’ distinguishing traits.

Thom Linley, a deep-sea fish curator on board the expedition, first noticed the squid while preparing for a dive. Excited but uncertain, he quickly sent a low-resolution image to colleagues, sparking a flurry of analysis.

Marine biologist Aaron Evans, a glass squid specialist, confirmed the find. “When we saw the hook-bearing tentacles and location near Antarctica, we were overwhelmed. It was a major moment,” he said.

The discovery occurred during an Ocean Census flagship expedition led by the Schmidt Ocean Institute to explore and catalogue marine biodiversity.