Scientists decided to set up a research station on an Antarctic cruise ship instead of renting a research vessel to study giant squid. These creatures, known as Antarctic giant squid, can reach astounding sizes of up to 500 kg and 14 m in length. Despite some specimens being found by fishing boats, observing these mysterious cephalopods in their natural habitat has proven to be a challenge for researchers.
Matthew Mulrennan founded the nonprofit organization Kolossal with the aim of filming giant squid in their natural habitats. The goal is to gather basic information about these marine creatures, including their hunting habits and different life stages. Mulrennan assembled a team of scientists with the goal of recording giant squid during trips to Antarctica in 2022 and 2023. This effort is estimated to cost around $500,000, significantly more affordable than renting a research vessel, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars per day and up to $8 million for similar expeditions.
During their trips on the Ocean Endeavor cruise ship, tourists observed a team of researchers taking cameras into the Southern Ocean to record marine life. They even created a complete research station on the ship to support their efforts. The team managed to capture footage of various species, including a baby giant squid-like animal in Paradise Harbor, Antarctica. Researchers still face challenges studying giant squid due to their deep-sea habitats and difficulty in preserving specimens for long-term study.
The Kolossal team recorded more than 80 species of marine life during their 58 days at sea, including a creature resembling an adult glass squid or possibly a baby giant squid. Although the exact classification remains uncertain, the team sees this as progress towards their goal of discovering giant squid by 2025. Mulrennan plans to return to Antarctica for further expeditions in the next season to continue their research and exploration.
In conclusion, scientists are using an affordable option instead of expensive options such as hiring a research ship or renting a research vessel while studying giant squids on an Antarctic cruise ship. This approach has proven successful as it allows researchers access deep-sea habitats where these creatures reside while minimizing costs associated with these traditional methods.