Studying A New Octopus Species
Up until recently, not much was known about the Larger Pacific Striped Octopus. Its existence was believed to be a tall tale and the species was officially recognized in the beginning of the 90’s. Most of the information regarding this fascinating species comes from a study which took place in the University of California, Berkeley. The researchers managed to gather twenty four live individuals and observe their behavior for a period of two years, from 2012 to 2014. The results of the study were very exciting. Among the many peculiarities observed, a curious hunting technique was recorded.
The Hunting Arm
The researchers captured this unique hunting technique on camera.
Generally speaking, this species will both hunt its prey and wait for it to come closer. In the second case, the Larger Pacific Striped Octopus will sometimes extend an arm to grab its victim in a very peculiar way. The extended dorsal arm will have its tips curled up so that the suckers will be able to attach themselves to the victim. This arm will form an arch and slowly lower its tip until it touches its victim. The victim, in most cases, startled by the light pat, will withdraw hastily towards the mouth of this clever octopus hunter.
Interestingly enough, this technique was applied in smaller prey, such as shrimps, but not in larger ones, such as crabs.
As you can see from this video, the technique is very effective as the panic-stricken shrimp runs directly into the octopus’ deadly embrace.
