Deep-Sea Gigantism

ocean · deep sea · animals · science mystery

Giant squid exist. Some deep-sea squid grow enormously larger than their shallow-water relatives. Scientists think the cold, dark depths of the ocean might trigger this giant growth, though they're still learning exactly how.

Cold helps size. The freezing temperatures in the deep ocean may be one reason animals grow so big down there. Bigger bodies might help animals stay warm and survive in the icy darkness.

Scarce food matters. Food is hard to find in the deep ocean, so some scientists think larger bodies help animals go longer without eating or hunt better when food appears.

More oxygen available. The deep sea actually has more dissolved oxygen in the water than some shallower areas, which might give deep-sea creatures the extra energy they need to grow bigger.

Fewer predators hunting. With fewer predators in the depths, deep-sea animals don't need to stay small to hide, so they can grow large without as much danger.