A researcher from Washington state has made an exciting discovery, identifying a seven-arm octopus, typically found in the Atlantic Ocean, on the coast of British Columbia. The creature was spotted in August by Kathleen Durant, a resident of Pender Island, while she was out walking her dog and came across what initially appeared to be a large red jellyfish on the beach. Upon closer inspection, she realized it was an octopus when she noticed an eye.
Seeking more information, Durant posted images of the unusual find on the Field Naturalists of Vancouver Island Facebook page, where marine biologist Casey Cook recognized it as an octopus based on the suction cups on its arms. Cook, in an interview with CBC’s On The Island, mentioned that the creature was not a known local species based on the images she saw.
After conducting research and comparing images, Cook confirmed that the specimen was a seven-arm octopus, scientifically known as Haliphron atlanticus, also referred to as a septopus and blob octopus. Interestingly, this species actually has eight arms, with males hiding one arm, called a hectocotylus, used for breeding. Although typically an Atlantic species, sightings of the seven-arm octopus on the Pacific coast have been reported in recent years.
The reasons for their presence in these waters remain unclear, as Cook suggested that changing climates and currents may have led to the migration of these creatures. It is possible they were introduced through ballast water or other means, or they could be native to the area with limited scientific documentation. Despite the slim chance of the octopus being a Pacific species, Cook noted that it could be adapting to its new environment, as the specimen appeared healthy and uninjured.
The discovery of this unique octopus on the shores of British Columbia highlights the ongoing mysteries and adaptations of marine life in the region.