Octopus

Octopus
Octopus vulgaris
Maximum span: 2 metres

 

Geographical distribution:
Mediterranean, Atlantic, English Channel

 

Biology:
The common octopus can move around in deep water by ejecting water that it has taken into its body out through its siphon.  It is above all a benthic animal, living hidden amongst rock crevices and lying in wait for its prey: its eight strong arms are much more effective when they rest on the sea floor and help it to defend or feed itself.  Its phenomenal elasticity allows it to pass through cracks ten times narrower than itself and thus escape predators.  

A veritable chameleon of the seas, the octopus instantly changes colour according to its mood.  If it feels threatened, it flees in a cloud of ink to confuse its attacker.  

It is the most fully evolved of the cephalopod molluscs: it is even thought that it has the ability to learn and deduce, which the biologists of the Grand Aquarium maintain by placing a piece of fish in a screw-topped jar.  It only takes the octopus a few minutes to unscrew the lid and enjoy its delicious meal!   

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