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Common Octopus

Common octopus

Octopus vulgaris

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Fun Facts

The common octopus has special glands that produce venom to startle their prey.

Species Type:

Octopus & Kin, Invertebrates

Common Name(s):

Common octopus

Size:

The common octopus grows to be anywhere from 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) in size.

Diet:

The common octopus feeds on clams, scallops, mussels, oysters and other small aquatic invertebrates.

Range & Habitat:

Found in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, these octopuses live in coastal waters anywhere from 100-150 meters (328-492 feet) in depth.

Details:

The common octopus has smooth skin with special cells called chromatophores helping them change color quickly. Using camouflage to blend into their surroundings, they’re able to hide from predators and hunt for their prey under the radar. They have eight arms with two rows of suckers on each.

Staff Who Work with This Species: