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Who?
Family: Octopodidae
Species: Octopus briareus
Species ID: O.OB
Description: A typical octopus, with a large bulbous body atop a series of eight long legs. The dark ring urrounding the eye (1), and the lack of dark borders on its suckers (2), help identify the Caribbean reef octopus. This species often appears iridescent blue-green in colour with brown mottling, but can change colour, and even texture, at will. Males can be distinguished from females by the presence of the flat, paddle-like sex organ on the end of one tentacle (3). Juveniles resemble adults
Maximum Size: 100 cm (40 in), when including the arms
Longevity: 17 months
Status: Not currently on the IUCN endangered species list
Caribbean Reef Octopus & People: This species is not fished commercially, but is caught by fishermen throughout its range for local consumption
Where?
Geographical Range: Common throughout south Florida, the Caribbean and the northern coast of South America
Coral Reef Zone: This species is common in shallow waters such as the shore, back reef and reef flat zones, but is also found in the fore reef zone
Favourite Habitat: Octopuses prefer areas with many caves and crevices in which they can hide
Depth Range : 4.5–23 m (15–75 ft)
A Day in The Life
Dawn: Octopus hunting activity declines and they return to the shelter of a cave for the day
Day: Octopuses hide in their shelter but may emerge to mate
Dusk: Octopuses emerge from their shelters and begin hunting
Night: Octopuses are active, scouring the reef for food
Who Eats Who
The octopus is a carnivore, feeding mainly on crustaceans such as crabs, shrimp, lobster, clams, snails, as well as small fish. This species is also known to feed on carrion, and cannibalism is common among these opportunistic hunters. Although octopuses are masters of disguise, they (and their eggs) are regularly consumed by many reef carnivores including grouper, snapper, nurse sharks, and especially eels, which are capable of following the scent of an octopus to its cave.
Scuba Diver & Snorkeler Best Practices
Don’t disturb the wildlife : Interfering with wildlife may frighten them, disrupting feeding and mating behaviours, and even provoking at attack on you. Hanging onto marine wildlife such as turtles, dolphins and whale sharks can cause them stress. Maintain your distance—wildlife will spend longer in your vicinity if they feel comfortable in your presence.
