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Big Blue Octopus (Octopus cyanea) - Reef Reality Episode 46

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Many a reef octopus has been known to be a master of camouflage. They are able to change their body colour and skin texture through light-reflecting and pigment-containing cells known as chromatophores. These octopi can generally be found in lairs which they excavate themselves. The day octopus specifically grows up to a length of 1.2 metres, with arms generally reaching up to 80 centimetres.

Species Health / Vulnerability:

High to very high, but not listed on IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Description - Octopus (Octopus cyanea)

The big blue octopus, also known as the day octopus, grows up to a length of 1.2 metres, with arms generally reaching up to 80 centimetres. Their bodies are generally brown but have the ability to change colour and skin texture due to light-reflecting and pigment-containing cells known as chromatophores found in their bodies. The big blue octopus has an exceptional ability to camouflage itself.

Regions & Habitat

The big blue octopus is common in coral reefs throughout the Indo-Pacific region, where it can be found in its excavated lair when not out hunting.

Feeding

The day octopus feeds on bivalves, bony fishes and crabs during daylight hours. Predators include seals, sea lions, large bony fish and sharks.

Biggest Threats

The day octopus is fished locally with lures, baited lines, traps, spears, and by hand.

How to Help

1) Volunteer. Volunteer and community coral reef monitoring programs are very important. If you do not live near a coast, get involved in your local save the river (bay, lake, or other estuarine environment) program. Remember, all watersheds affect the oceans and eventually the coral reefs.

2) CLICK HERE for 40 Marine Conservation Tips - How YOU can Make a Difference!