Colossal Squid Possess Rotating Hooks on Their Tentacles

Unlike most squid, the colossal squid is armed with swiveling hooks that can rotate and grip prey like grappling weapons.

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Fishermen have occasionally recovered Antarctic toothfish bearing circular scars believed to be from colossal squid hooks.

The two long feeding tentacles of Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni are lined with sharp hooks that can pivot, allowing the squid to latch securely onto struggling prey such as Antarctic toothfish.

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These rotating hooks provide a mechanical advantage in the crushing pressures of deep water. Instead of relying solely on suction cups, the squid can physically anchor itself to large prey items, reducing escape chances in the low-visibility environment.

The presence of such specialized armament underscores the colossal squid's position as an apex invertebrate predator of the Southern Ocean ecosystem.

Source

National Geographic

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