University of Essex scientist captures first glass squid video

The international team, led by a Essex University researcher, captured a 30-centimetre juvenile squid on video at a depth of 600 metres by a remotely operated vehicle on March 9. 

The sighting at the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel Falkor (too) took place near the South Sandwich Islands in the South Atlantic. 

Dr Michelle Taylor, the expedition’s chief scientist, said: “It’s incredible that we can leverage the power of the taxonomic community through R/V Falkor (too) telepresence while we are out at sea. 

Squid – A juvenile colossal squid has never been captured in its natural habitat before (Image: University of Essex)

“The Ocean Census international science network is proud to work together with the Schmidt Ocean Institute to accelerate species discovery and expand our knowledge of ocean life, live online with the world’s science community.” 

Joined by PhD student Oenone Scott, who described the trip as a “dream come true”, the 35-day expedition under Dr Taylor searched for new marine life. 

Expedition – The researchers are aboard the Falkor (too) near Antarctica (Image: University of Essex)

Colossal squid are estimated to grow up to seven metres in length and can weigh up to 500 kg, making them the heaviest invertebrate in the world. 

So far, little is known about the colossal squid’s life cycle, but that they eventually lose the see-through appearance when getting older. 

Dying adults have previously been filmed by fishermen, but have never been seen or captured on film alive at depth. 

Additionally, another expedition team on the Falkor (too) managed to film the first confirmed footage of another glass squid species, the glacial glass squid, on January 25. 

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