
I am fascinated by the Humboldt squid and squids in general. The Humboldt squids are engaged in a massive takeover of the coast of California due in part to warming water there. The Museum of New Zealand has in its clutches the largest know “colossal” squid ever captured by humans. The colossal differs from the giant squid in that it has sharp swiveling hooks in it’s suckered tentacles, which squid scientists imply makes it a fierce aggressive hunter (who am I to disagree?). They plan to do a live dissection of this great animal and webcast the whole thing! How morbidly fascinating is that. Here is an excerpt from the press release.
The scientists will examine the squid’s general anatomical features, take measurements, remove the stomach (and its contents), beak and other mouthparts; and determine the sex of the squid. In addition, the scientists will take tissues samples for DNA analysis. They will have to work quickly as the specimen, once defrosted, will start to degrade or rot.
Full Press Release- Squid defrosting and examination set for 30 April 2008
Museum of New Zealand- More Info