Sunday, May 9, 2010

Monster colossal squid is a slow non-fearsome predator

The world's largest invertebrate is not a fast and voracious predator as previously thought, say scientists. The colossal squid, a creature once linked to maritime myth and feared as a sea monster, is really a slow drifting animal that ambushes unwitting prey. That conclusion was reached by studying the physiology and feeding habits of other deep sea species and scaling up to the colossal squid's huge size. Researchers reveal their findings in the Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom. The colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) is thought to roam in the deep waters of the Southern Ocean. Rarely seen alive or dead, little is known about its way of life. Estimates vary, but it is thought to measure 15m in length with a large dome-shaped mantle. It also has long tentacles and arms containing swivelling hooks used to grapple and maul prey. A recent specimen studied had eyes approximately 27cm (11in) across, believed to be the largest animal eye yet discovered.


though little is known about this creature everyone can say that it is truly a ginormous animal and I'm sure many would be shocked to find out that it is a harmless one. The myth's of the great sea monster the "kraken" have astonishingly proven themselves true only of the size of course but for the fearsome reckless nature that is this mythical beast more research shall have to be done to prove it. But for now its safe to say that even with its size and stealthy way of attack it truly is a harmless creature.


works sited

"BBC - Earth News - Monster Colossal Squid Is Slow Not Fearsome Predator." BBC NEWS | News Front Page. Web. 10 May 2010. .

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