Meet the Dumbo Octopus

The dumbo octopus has been known to be the cutest octopus. The dumbo octopus is one of the 13 recognized species of Grimpoteuthis. Each different species of the dumbo octopus have a similar feature that makes them unique, their ear-like fins. These ear-like fins are how they got their name and what makes them stand out from other octopodes. They use these fins to help propel them through the water and navigate water currents.

“Dumbo octopuses live in the deep open ocean down to depths of at least 13,100 feet (4000 meters) and perhaps much deeper, making this group the deepest living of all known octopuses,” says Oceana. This is also the reason they don’t have ink sacs like other octopodes. They live in such deep waters they do not need ink sacs as a defense mechanism. Since they live in such deep waters, predators and prey are minimal. When they eventually find something to eat, they pounce and eat their prey whole which usually includes copepods, isopods, bristle worms, and amphipods.

Another unique thing about the dumbo octopus is that they are smaller compared to other octopodes. According to Ocean Conservancy, its average size is between 20-30 centimeters (slightly larger than an adult guinea pig) but scientists found one as large as 1.8 meters, or about six feet. They also come in a variety of shapes and colors and are able to camouflage themselves to their environment.

We are just beginning to learn about Dumbo octopodes because they live deep in the ocean. Little is known about them, but there is one thing for sure: we must protect their marine habitat so that we can continue to learn and understand them and their fascinating lives.

https://nautiluslive.org/video/2015/08/21/shy-dumbo-octopus-hides-inside-its-own-tentacles
https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/onlinelearningcenter/species/dumbo_octopus#:~:text=Dumbo%20octopuses%20pounce%20on%20prey,floating%20along%20in%20the%20current
https://oceana.org/marine-life/dumbo-octopus/
https://oceanconservancy.org/blog/2018/10/08/everything-need-know-dumbo-octopus/