In a landmark achievement for marine science, researchers have captured the first-ever footage of a live colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) in its natural deep-sea habitat. The juvenile specimen, approximately 1 foot (30 centimeters) in length, was filmed at a depth of 1,968 feet (600 meters) near the South Sandwich Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. This unprecedented observation offers valuable insights into the early life stages and behavior of one of the ocean's most elusive creatures.

The footage, released by the Schmidt Ocean Institute on April 16, 2025, was obtained during an expedition in March 2025. An international team of scientists utilized the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian to explore the uncharted depths of the South Atlantic. The discovery was part of the institute's 2025 expeditions aimed at documenting biodiversity and mapping seafloor features in the Southern Ocean.

Colossal squids are among the largest known invertebrates, with adults reaching lengths up to 23 feet (7 meters) and weights exceeding 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms). They inhabit the deep, cold waters of the Southern Ocean, primarily at depths ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters. Due to their elusive nature, much of what is known about them comes from specimens found in the stomachs of predators like sperm whales or those that have washed ashore.

The juvenile squid observed in the footage appeared nearly transparent, a stark contrast to the opaque dark red or purple coloration typical of adults. This transparency is believed to be an adaptation for camouflage in the dimly lit depths of the ocean. The observation of this juvenile provides researchers with a rare glimpse into the early developmental stages of colossal squids, which have remained largely mysterious until now.

Dr. Kat Bolstad, a squid researcher at the Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand, expressed enthusiasm about the discovery, stating, "I really love that we have seen a young colossal squid first. This animal is so beautiful." Dr. Bolstad has previously led examinations of colossal squid specimens, including a notable dissection in 2014, which provided significant insights into the anatomy and biology of these deep-sea giants.

The use of advanced technology, such as ROV SuBastian, was instrumental in capturing this footage. The ROV, designed and constructed over 18 months, has completed over 400 dives around the globe since its inaugural dive in 2016. Its capabilities have enabled researchers to access remote regions and depths, leading to the discovery of new species and seafloor features. In March 2025, SuBastian was deployed near the South Sandwich Islands, where it filmed the juvenile colossal squid, marking a significant milestone in deep-sea exploration.

This discovery underscores the importance of deep-sea exploration and the potential for uncovering unknown aspects of marine life. It highlights the need for continued investment in oceanographic research to better understand and protect deep-sea ecosystems. The insights gained from observing a live colossal squid in its natural habitat will contribute to our understanding of the species' life cycle, behavior, and role in the ocean's food web.

As researchers continue to analyze the footage and data collected during the expedition, there is optimism that further studies will reveal more about the enigmatic colossal squid and the deep-sea environments they inhabit. This breakthrough serves as a reminder of the vast mysteries that remain hidden beneath the ocean's surface and the ongoing quest to uncover them.