Dux - Canvas

The giant squid (Architeuthis dux) is a species of deep-ocean dwelling squid in the family Architeuthidae. It can grow to a tremendous size, offering an example of deep-sea gigantism: recent estimates put the maximum size at around 39–43 ft for females and 33 ft for males, from the posterior fins to the tip of the two long tentacles (longer than the colossal squid at an estimated 30–33 ft, but substantially lighter, due to the tentacles making up most of the length. The mantle of the giant squid is about 6 ft 7 in long (more for females, less for males), and the length of the squid excluding its tentacles (but including head and arms) rarely exceeds 5 m 16 ft. Claims of specimens measuring 66 ft or more have not been scientifically documented.

The number of different giant squid species has been debated, but recent genetic research suggests that only one species exists.

The first images of the animal in its natural habitat were taken in 2004 by a Japanese team.