Magnificent Magnapinna in the Marianas

It’s everyone’s favorite cephalopod- the bigfin squid (genus Magnapinna). ROV Little Hercules spotted this individual while diving around 5,400 meters (17,716 feet) deep on the abyssal plain in the waters of the Mariana Archipelago 218 nm NE of Maug (Ma'ok) during our NA180 expedition. 

Rarely seen on camera, this marine invertebrate is recognized by its distinct morphology, including perpendicular arms and tentacles that resemble elbows. Scientists understand the bigfin may be the deepest-dwelling of all squid, as it’s been seen even below 6,000 meters in the hadal zone. 

Ocean Exploration Trust's Deep-Sea Habitats in the Mariana Islands I & II (NA179 & NA180) expeditions are primarily supported by NOAA Ocean Exploration via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, with additional support from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management for AUV Sentry’s participation.