For the first time ever, researchers have been able to obtain images of infant giant squids, creatures that are known to grow more than ten meters long.
The infant squids are roughly the same size as adult squids, but they have longer, skinnier arms, and they have a different arrangement of sucker pads on their tentacles. The young squids are often mistaken for their adult counterparts, and scientists are still trying to learn more about the life cycle of the squids.
The three captured squids were found off of coasts in Japan in various locations. Giant squids are known for being extremely hard to locate, making them difficult to study. The three infant squids that were captured will go on display in aquariums in Japan so that the public can see the elusive creatures.
People in Japan have been fascinated with the creatures for a long time. Myths regarding sailors doing battle with giant squids have existed for centuries.
Some experts in Japan believe that giant squid infants are often being fished without people noticing. The infants are very similar to the adults in terms of appearance, and many people cannot tell the difference. It’s likely that many young giant squids are simply suspected of being adults.
Nature conservationists and researchers in Japan are trying to spread the word about giant squids so that fishermen will be more careful about what they do with their catches.
For now, scientists still need to obtain more giant squids in order to further advance research. Until that happens, they will have a difficult time learning more about the creatures, particularly the young ones.
Also, obtaining more giant squids will allow them to be displayed in aquariums so that the public can enjoy them as well.
While giant squids are not endangered, they are very difficult to find while they are alive because they live in extremely deep waters with virtually zero light.
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