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| Rare and Glowing! Scientists Capture First-Ever Footage of Live Deep-Sea Gonatus Antarcticus Squid. |
This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi documentary — it’s a real-life ocean discovery that’s blowing scientists’ minds! For the very first time, researchers have captured video footage of a living Gonatus antarcticus, a super rare species of deep-sea squid known as the Antarctic Gonatus.
This elusive creature was spotted during a joint expedition by National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet in 2024. But only recently did experts confirm that the squid caught on camera is indeed this rarely seen mollusk — a species previously known only from dead specimens pulled up in fishing nets or beak remains found inside the stomachs of other predators.
Deep in the Southern Ocean: 2,152 Meters Below
The squid was recorded in the Southern Ocean, drifting through the icy waters of Antarctica at an incredible depth of 2,152 meters (over 7,000 feet!). That’s an environment so extreme that only the toughest creatures can survive — and this squid is clearly one of them.
It had a striking blood-red glowing body and measured close to 0.9 meters (about 3 feet) in length. While scientists couldn’t determine its gender or age, they noticed visible scars or scratches on its body — a possible sign that it recently survived an attack by a larger predator. Despite the damage, it appeared to be in good health.
Still Vibrant — A Sign of Strength
Typically, female squids lose their bright coloring and fade as they near the end of their life cycle. But this one was still glowing with rich red hues — a potential sign that it's still in its prime and thriving in its deep-sea habitat.
Another cool detail: when the squid noticed the approaching remotely operated vehicle (ROV), it released a cloud of greenish ink, likely out of fear. After a few minutes of mesmerizing observation, it slipped away into the dark, silent depths of the ocean.
First Time Scientists See a Live Gonatus Antarcticus in the Wild
Even though the Gonatus antarcticus has been known to science for over a century, this marks the first time it’s ever been observed alive and in its natural environment. Until now, all knowledge of this species came from dead specimens or predator stomach contents.
This discovery is more than just a cool moment — it's a major step in deep-sea exploration. It shows us how much we still don’t know about the mysteries of the ocean and reminds us that Earth’s most fascinating creatures are often the hardest to find.
So if you’re into marine life, mysterious deep-sea creatures, or epic nature discoveries, this is definitely a “wow moment” to remember.
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