Rare colossal squid captured on camera for the first time in deep ocean, watch video here

Rare colossal squid captured on camera

In a groundbreaking marine biology discovery, a colossal squid has been filmed alive in its natural habitat for the very first time. An international team of ocean researchers, operating a remotely piloted submersible, captured footage of the elusive creature deep beneath the South Atlantic Ocean near the South Sandwich Islands.

The historic sighting, revealed this week by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, features a juvenile colossal squid measuring approximately 30 centimeters (1 foot) in length. While this specimen was small, adult colossal squids can grow up to a staggering 7 meters (23 feet)—roughly the size of a small fire truck—making them one of the largest known invertebrates on Earth.

The squid was recorded at a depth of 600 meters (1,968 feet) during an exploratory mission aimed at discovering new deep-sea species. Before releasing the video, scientists collaborated with independent marine experts to verify the identity of the young squid.

Watch the video here

The colossal squidone of natures most elusive animals, and the worlds most massive squid specieswas first identified 100 years ago using remains found in the stomach of a sperm whale. Now, one has been filmed alive in its natural oceanic environment for the first time. pic.twitter.com/yeqLs6b0Xq
National Geographic (@NatGeo) April 15, 2025

“This animal is so beautiful,” said Kat Bolstad, a squid specialist at Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand, who played a key role in confirming the find. “I really love that we have seen a young colossal squid first.”

Experts believe this rare footage opens the door for even more incredible discoveries in the ocean’s uncharted depths. According to Bolstad, research teams are now experimenting with enhanced deep-sea camera technology in hopes of documenting a fully grown colossal squid in the wild.

The juvenile squid displayed a nearly transparent, glass-like appearance—typical of younger specimens. As they mature, colossal squids develop a dense, dark red or purple hue and grow thicker, muscular arms.

This historic sighting not only marks a major step forward in deep-sea exploration but also highlights the power of technology in unveiling the ocean’s long-held mysteries.