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Caribbean reef octopus

Octopus briareus

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Fun Facts

To escape a predator, these octopuses will sometimes eject an ink cloud into the water. 

Species Type:

Octopus & Kin

Common Name(s):

Caribbean reef octopus

Size:

These octopuses' mantles, or heads, only grow to one foot (12 centimeters) in height.

Diet:

Caribbean reef octopuses eat clams, snails, crabs, lobsters and occasionally members of the same species.

Range & Habitat:

In the Caribbean Sea, Caribbean reef octopuses live near coral reef communities, hiding in caves and crevices.

Details:

Caribbean reef octopuses have white bodies with an orange and brown vein-like pattern from their head to their arms. They have special cells called chromatophores in their skin that help them camouflage themselves into their environment.