Scientists have for the first time captured live footage of the elusive Antarctic squid species Gonatus antarcticus, a deep-sea creature previously known only from specimens caught by fishing vessels or remains found in other marine animals. The rare squid, measuring approximately 90 centimeters with long arms ending in large hooks, inhabits the deep waters of the Weddell Sea near Antarctica. The unprecedented recordings, first made in December 2024 and publicly released in June 2025, provide new insights into this species that was originally discovered in 1898 but never before observed alive in its natural habitat. The footage has been described as a landmark achievement in marine biology, shedding light on a mysterious ocean dweller often referred to as the colossal squid, noted for having the largest eyes of any animal on the planet.