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Scientists Thaw Colossal Squid for Probe  

Posted Apr 28, 08 10:56 AM CDT in Science & Health    Editor's Choice

(newser) – New Zealand scientists have begun defrosting a colossal squid, caught last year, so they can dissect the little-known species. They aim to start by determining the sex of the 34-foot long animal, a native of Antarctica that weighs half a ton. "They're incredibly rare—this is probably one of six specimens ever brought up," one researcher told the BBC.

The colossal squid was first classified in 1925 when scientists found two tentacles inside a sperm whale—a deep-diving animal with teeth large enough to prey on the titan. But it's not an easy catch: Colossal squids are fighters equipped with sharp beaks and hook-like extremities. The scientists will be showing off their findings in a live webcast before embalming the squid.

Source BBC

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New Zealand Herald | Apr 28, 08

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Daily Telegraph (UK) | Apr 28, 08

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Scientists Thaw Colossal Squid for Probe
A giant squid is seen after it washed up onto Ocean Beach in Strahan, Tasmania, Tuesday, July, 10. 2007.   (Associated Press)
Scientists Thaw Colossal Squid for Probe
A giant squid is seen after it washed up onto Ocean Beach in Strahan, Tasmania, Tuesday, July, 10. 2007.   (Associated Press)
Scientists Thaw Colossal Squid for Probe
Wildlife workers examine a giant squid after it washed up onto Ocean Beach in Strahan, Tasmania, Tuesday, July, 10. 2007.   (Associated Press)
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