The squids that are dissected at the Natural History Museum are less than a foot long and are purchased from Dillons grocery store. They cost $4.29 a pound.

In contrast the giant squid can grow to be 70 feet in length with the tentacles extended and weigh 880 pounds.

Here are some more facts about giant squids:

Where do giant squid live?

They live between 1,640 feet and 4,900 feet below the surface of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.

What other creatures are giant squids related to?

Giant squids are mollusks, which typically have hard outer shells and no backbone like snails, oysters and clams. They are also cephalopods, which means they probably have internal skeletons and tentacles attached to their heads like octopus, nautilus and cuttlefish.

What purpose do the tentacles serve?

The squid uses its two large tentacles like tweezers to catch prey.

How does a squid move through the water?

A squid inhales water and then expels it through a tube called a siphon. The force of the water’s expulsion causes the squid to move in the opposite direction. Squids are fast swimmers and have been described as moving through the water like “living torpedoes.”

Does a squid really shoot ink?

When a squid is in danger, it shoots a jet of black ink to disorient its enemy.

How big are a giant squid’s eyes?

The giant squid has the largest eyes in the animal kingdom. They are as large as 10 inches in diameter, or about the size of a dinner plate.

What do giant squids eat?

Fish and smaller squids.

What is the squid’s enemy?

The sperm whale loves the taste of squid, so do sharks, cod, seals and penguins.

Is it true a squid can change its color?

Many squid have light-producing organs which allow them to glow in the dark ocean water. The squid can produce red, blue, green and white to camouflage themselves and lure their prey.