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Giant squid found dead on Paphos beach

A large squid was discovered dead on a beach near the lighthouse in Paphos, Cyprus. The find was first reported by a member of the public, Jo Christodulides, who shared photographs of the creature on the social media group 'Marine Life of Cyprus'. To demonstrate the scale of the organism, the finder placed a size 38 shoe next to it for comparison. Experts have not yet issued an official statement regarding the species, leading to public debate. While some observers speculate the specimen is a giant squid (Architeuthis dux), others suggest it may be a European flying squid (Todarodes sagittatus), commonly known as a 'thrapsalo'. Marine experts note that such creatures typically reside in deep waters and may wash ashore due to natural causes, such as post-reproductive exhaustion, temperature changes, or illness. Further investigation is required to confirm the identity of the animal and the circumstances of its death.

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