Scientists Defrost Colossal Squid
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Scientists Defrost Colossal Squid
Weighing in at just under half a tonne, this is a huge catch. The colossal squid is the largest of its kind ever to be caught and preserved. Now scientists at a museum in New Zealand are defrosting the creature and preparing it for dissection. The scientists have up to 8 hours to find out more about the squid before it starts to decay. Marine biologist Steven O'Shea says there's a lot to discover. (SOUNDBITE) (English) MARINE BIOLOGIST FROM AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, STEVEN O'SHEA SAYING: "In 2003 when we had the first specimen we didn't have any eyes and when we put the certain gadget in the water here we saw two of the most sensational eyes and they are both perfect. So that is a highlight, that is probably the best thing so far, there's more to come." The huge eyes are 27 centimetres wide, and its tentacles are lined with hundreds of sharp hooks so it can catch its prey. As for tucking in to a calamari starter, it seems this squid doesn't taste too bad. (SOUNDBITE) (English) MARINE BIOLOGIST FROM AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, STEVEN O'SHEA SAYING: "I neither confirm nor deny. The interesting thing about it is that it was nonammoniacal, that is the important thing as far as we are concerned it tasted good apparently." After dissection the squid will be embalmed and displayed at the museum.
YouTube | April 30, 2008
