The giant squid (Architeuthis dux) is a species of deep-ocean dwelling squid in the familyArchiteuthidae. It can grow to a tremendous size, offering an example of abyssal gigantism: recent estimates put the maximum body size at around 5 m (16 ft) for females, with males slightly shorter,[2] from the posterior fins to the tip of its long arms. This makes it longer than the colossal squid at an estimated 4.2 m (14 ft),[3] but substantially lighter, as it is less robust and its arms make up much of the length.[4] The mantle of the giant squid is about 2 m (6 ft 7 in) long (longer for females, shorter for males), and the feeding tentacles of the giant squid, concealed in life, are 10 m (33 ft).[2] Claims of specimens measuring 20 m (66 ft) or more have not been scientifically documented.[2][5][6][7]
The number of different giant squid species has been debated, but genetic research suggests that only one species exists.[8]
In 2004, a Japanese research team obtained the first images of a living animal in its habitat.[9]