Insular Octopus (Common Octopus)
Insular Octopus
| Name: | Insular Octopus (Common Octopus) |
| Scientific Name: | Octopus insularis |
| Family: | Octopuses |
| Taxonomic: | Octopodidae |
| ID Group: | Squids & Octopuses |
| Size: | up to 3 ft. |
| Depth Range: | On the reef (10 – 60 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Seen sometimes |
The Insular Octopus has a pale yellow-green body with reddish-brown, net-like markings that can change to blend in with its surroundings. The color patterns may vary. A dark line stretches across each of its eyes, and dark rings encircle its suckers.
This Octopus can be found alone in shallow rocky areas or on the reef, hiding in crevices and is very cautious. It searches by poking, crawling, and probing with its arms, and it eats mostly small crabs and mollusks. Adults usually die after laying or caring for eggs. It was once confused with Octopus vulgaris (Common Octopus), but researchers have shown it is a different, unique species.