It was initially identified as a species of giant squid of the genus "Architeuthis". The taxonomy of the giant squid genus "Architeuthis" has not been entirely resolved. It is perhaps a species of "Architeuthis". The search for a live "Architeuthis" specimen includes attempts to find live young, including larvae. One species, "Architeuthis harveyi", was named in recognition of his work.