Critter Intros: Common Octopus

• Common Name: Common Octopus

• Scientific Name: Octopus vulgaris

• Conservation Status: Least Concern

• Habitat: Temperate and tropical waters worldwide, typically in rocky seafloors, coral reefs, and seagrass beds, from the intertidal zone down to depths of 200 meters.

• Size: Arm span can reach up to 3 feet (1 meter), and weight can be around 22 lbs (10 kg), though typically smaller.

The common octopus is a highly intelligent and adaptable cephalopod, renowned for its incredible problem-solving abilities and mastery of camouflage. Found in diverse marine environments across the globe, this solitary creature is an expert at blending into its surroundings, changing its skin color and texture in an instant to match rocks, sand, or corals. It has eight powerful arms lined with suckers, which it uses for movement, manipulating objects, and capturing prey. Primarily a nocturnal hunter, the common octopus preys on crabs, lobsters, and bivalves. When threatened, it can release a cloud of dark ink to disorient predators and make a quick escape using jet propulsion. Its complex nervous system and ability to learn make it one of the most fascinating invertebrates in the ocean.

Check out more!