The Schmidt Ocean Institute captured the first confirmed video of a colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) in its natural habitat. The juvenile squid was filmed at a depth of 600 meters near the South Sandwich Islands in the Atlantic Ocean on March 9, 2025. This event marks a significant milestone in marine biology and deep-sea exploration.
The sighting occurred during a 35-day expedition led by the Schmidt Ocean Institute as part of the Ocean Census project. The remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian captured the footage. The mission aimed to discover new marine life in the South Atlantic, contributing to the understanding of the ocean's biodiversity.
The video showcases a juvenile colossal squid, approximately 30 centimeters long, with a translucent body and distinctive hooks on its arms. These hooks differentiate it from other species, such as the glass squid (Galiteuthis glacialis). This discovery highlights the importance of international collaboration and technological advancements in marine research, providing valuable insights into the life cycle and behavior of this elusive creature.