Affiliated with:

University of Wisconsin Lacrosse

Published:

April 27, 2007

Lets get Physical:

Architeuthis dux reproduction remains a unclear subject to scientists. Research of similar squid and dissection of those found reveal much about these creatures, but still can only generate general hypothesis. By looking at the anatomy of these creatures we believe this:

A female Architeuthis dux contains a median ovary that can be found in the posterior region of the mantle. Over 11 pounds of  eggs are developed and stored here for fertilization. Each egg is about 1.4 mm long and .6 mm wide depending on its size of maturity. A pair of long convoluted oviducts connect the ovary to the oviducal glands and nidamental glands before exiting the body. The nidamental glands produces a large gelatinous matrix where the Architeuthis dux lays its eggs.

Now as it is known it takes to two be sexually reproductive, lets take a look at the male. A male giant squid tends to reach sexual maturity at a younger age. The two ventral arms are used in the transferring of the spermatophores to the female. Like many other squids the sperm is moves through a system of glands that assemble them into spermatophores. Once completed hundreds of spermatophores are packed into a elongated sac know as the Needman's Sac from which they will be expelled into the penis during procreation.

Cephalopods generally reach maturity at an early age. Their boneless bodies make it easy and faster for them to grow. Shallow water species of squid reach reproductive maturity at 12-14 months. Many of the specimens recovered have been at a mature age especially the females. While the maturity of the Architeuthis dux is unknown studies suggest that it takes three years to reach an adult stage. 

The number of giant squid is another unknown to scientists, but by examining their predators scientists dont believe they anywhere near extinction. Sperm whales need about 500 to 1,000 kilograms of food every day with giant squid being a big food source. There are believed to be 200,000 whales in Japanese waters so that would suggest there are a good number of squid around.