Pacific Bigfin Squid

Overview

Magnapinna pacifica is a rare species of bigfin squid that serves as the type species for its genus. Science currently knows this enigmatic cephalopod primarily from a small number of immature specimens, including juveniles and a paralarva. It was formally described in 1998 by marine biologists Michael Vecchione and Richard E. Young.

Appearance

This species is distinguished by proximal tentacles that are noticeably wider than the adjacent arms and equipped with numerous small suckers. Because the original type descriptions were based entirely on young individuals, the specialized, highly elongated arm and tentacle tips seen in adult bigfin squids were not yet developed in the initial specimens.

Distribution & habitat

Specimens of this Pacific bigfin squid have been recovered exclusively from the North Pacific Ocean. Documented collection locations include the eastern North Pacific off the coast of California and waters near the Hawaiian Islands, with specimens gathered via midwater plankton tows or recovered from predator stomach contents.