The most formidable of all the squids is the giant squid (
Architeuthis princeps), the largest of all the invertebrates, or animals without backbones. The total length of the animal, including the body and the arms, may be fifty feet or more. This monster lives in the open sea, making its way far beneath the surface. Live giant squids have but infrequently been encountered at sea; however, they are sometimes cast up on beaches, especially along the shores of Newfoundland. According to some authorities. the giant squid may have given rise to the numerous legends of mighty serpents frequenting the depths of the sea and occasionally engulfing ships.
