Beak of a giant squid (Dosidicus gigas)
PU1261
The giant squid, Dosidicus gigas, nicknamed the devil of the depths, is one of the most enigmatic animals in the oceans. This deep-sea cephalopod, long confused with the marine monsters of ancient tales, can reach up to 4 meters long tentacles included and 45 kilos. His 10cm diameter eye is made for darkness. Of course he does not reach the records of his great cousin the ARCHITEUTHIS DUX - 13 meters long, 280 kilos. These Humboldt squid with 8 powerful arms and 2 long tentacles feed on fish that it grips firmly before directing them towards this beak. He lives along South America's coast, up to California. This one was found stranded on a beach in Venezuela.
Its jaw, or 'beak', is made of chitin — a light and very resistant material, similar to that of insect shells. It is often the only element that remains after the decomposition of the animal.
Displayed here in a metal cage, this anatomical piece becomes a fascinating natural curiosity.
Its jaw, or 'beak', is made of chitin — a light and very resistant material, similar to that of insect shells. It is often the only element that remains after the decomposition of the animal.
Displayed here in a metal cage, this anatomical piece becomes a fascinating natural curiosity.
