Red Octopus*
Octopus rubescens (Octopodidae) Shell internalized.
Distribution: Alaska to Baja California. Habitat: From the intertidal and shallow subtidal as juveniles to 180 m depth as adults.
Appearance: Often red, as its common name implies; however, able to change colors—in the blink of an eye.
Diet: Small crabs (a favorite), hermit crabs, and other crustaceans, mollusks, and an occasional fish. Nocturnal forager.
Remarks: Female red octopuses in the Discovery Tidepool may on occasion spawn and be seen grooming and aerating their eggs. These animals should not be touched! Not only do they have sharp beaks and the inclination to use them, they also secrete venom from salivary glands on the wound, which can take several weeks to heal
*Notcurrentlyondisplay 11-1-14
Red Octopus*
Octopus rubescens (Octopodidae) Shell internalized.
Distribution: Alaska to Baja California. Habitat: From the intertidal and shallow subtidal as juveniles to 180 m depth as adults.
Appearance: Often red, as its common name implies; however, able to change colors—in the blink of an eye.
Diet: Small crabs (a favorite), hermit crabs, and other crustaceans, mollusks, and an occasional fish. Nocturnal forager.
Remarks: Female red octopuses in the Discovery Tidepool may on occasion spawn and be seen grooming and aerating their eggs. These animals should not be touched! Not only do they have sharp beaks and the inclination to use them, they also secrete venom from salivary glands on the wound, which can take several weeks to heal
*Notcurrentlyondisplay 11-1-14