The deep ocean harbors some of Earth’s most enigmatic creatures, among them the giant squid and the colossal squid. These two immense invertebrates have long captured human imagination, often leading to confusion about their true sizes. This article clarifies which of these deep-sea giants holds the title for being “bigger” by comparing their distinct forms and impressive dimensions.
Understanding the Giant Squid
The giant squid, scientifically known as Architeuthis dux, is a legendary inhabitant of the deep ocean, found across temperate and subtropical waters globally. Its extraordinary length is primarily due to two exceptionally long feeding tentacles. Documented specimens often reach total lengths of 12 to 13 meters (39 to 43 feet) for females, with males being slightly shorter. The mantle, or main body, measures approximately 2 meters (6.7 feet).
Giant squid possess a slender body, with their two longest tentacles accounting for a significant portion of their overall length. Females typically weigh up to 275 kilograms (606 pounds), and males around 150 kilograms (330 pounds). Their large eyes, up to 27 centimeters (10.6 inches) in diameter, help them detect movement in the deep.
Understanding the Colossal Squid
The colossal squid, Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni, occupying the circumantarctic waters of the Southern Ocean, is distinguished by its immense bulk and a notably wider, more robust body. It possesses the largest eyes of any known animal, estimated between 27 and 40 centimeters (11 to 16 inches) in diameter, aiding its deep-sea vision.
While total length typically ranges from 9 to 14 meters (30 to 46 feet), the colossal squid’s true distinction is its substantial mass. The largest confirmed specimens have weighed at least 495 kilograms (1,091 pounds), with estimates suggesting some could reach 600 to 700 kilograms (1,300 to 1,500 pounds). Unlike the giant squid, its arms and tentacles are armed with swiveling and three-pointed hooks, not just suckers.
Comparing Their True Sizes
When comparing the giant squid and the colossal squid, the definition of “bigger” becomes important. The giant squid generally holds the record for maximum total length, primarily due to its exceptionally long, whip-like tentacles. Its slender body contributes less to overall mass, making it longer but significantly lighter than the colossal squid.
Conversely, the colossal squid is widely considered the largest invertebrate on Earth in terms of mass and overall bulk. Despite being potentially shorter in total length, its mantle is considerably wider and more muscular, contributing to its immense weight. This greater body volume makes the colossal squid the more massive of the two. Their habitats also differ: the giant squid inhabits temperate and subtropical regions, while the colossal squid is restricted to the polar waters of the Southern Ocean. While the giant squid may stretch longer, the colossal squid is definitively bigger due to its superior weight and robust body structure.