Octopus is a sea animal famous for its round body, bulging eyes and eight long arms. They live in all oceans of the world but are especially abundant in warm, tropical waters. Octopuses, like their cousin, squid, are often referred to as “deep-bottom monsters,” although some species or types live in relatively shallow waters.
Source: BBC Earth
Most species of octopus live along the ocean floor, although some species are pelagic, which means they live near the surface of the water. Other species of octopus live in deep and dark waters, coming up at dawn and dusk in search of food. Crab, shrimp and lobster rank among their favorite foods, although some species can attack larger prey, such as sharks. Octopuses often drop their prey from above and use the strong attraction of crossed arms to pull the animal into its mouth. The octopus performs its famous reverse swim by squirting water through a muscular tube in its body called a siphon. Octopuses also crawl along the ocean floor, sticking their hands into small openings in search of food. Seals, whales and large fish prey on the octopus.
If threatened, the octopus will shoot an ink-colored liquid that darkens the water, confusing the invader. Octopuses can also turn gray, brown, pink, blue, or green to blend in with their surroundings. Octopuses can also change color as a way to communicate with other octopuses. Octopuses are solitary creatures, living alone in nests built from rocks, octopuses move into position using their powerful arms. Octopuses sometimes even create a stone “door” for their burrow, which can close once the octopus is safely inside.
