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Recent studies show that giant squid feed on deep-sea fish and other squid
species. They catch prey using the two tentacles, gripping it with serrated
sucker rings on the ends. Then they bring it toward the powerful beak, and
shred it with the radula (tongue with small, file-like teeth) before it
reaches the esophagus. They are believed to be solitary hunters, as only
individual giant squid have been caught in fishing nets. Fish such as the
Hoki are among the giant squid's diet.
Adult giant squids' only known predators are sperm whales and possibly Pacific sleeper sharks, found off Antarctica, but it is unknown whether these sharks hunt squid, or just scavenge squid carcasses. Juveniles are preyed on by deep sea sharks and fishes. Because sperm whales are skilled at locating giant squid, scientists have tried to observe them to study the squid. |
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