A researcher from Washington state is thrilled to have identified a seven-arm octopus, typically found in the Atlantic Ocean, on the coast of British Columbia. The discovery took place in August when Kathleen Durant, a resident of Pender Island, stumbled upon what appeared to be a large red jellyfish while walking her dog. However, upon closer inspection, she noticed an eye on the creature.
Curious to learn more, Durant shared images of the mysterious find on the Field Naturalists of Vancouver Island Facebook page, where marine biologist Casey Cook recognized it. Cook determined that the creature was an octopus rather than a squid by examining the suction cups on its arms. She embarked on researching old articles and comparing images to conclusively identify the species.
After thorough investigation, Cook confirmed that the specimen was a seven-arm octopus, scientifically known as Haliphron atlanticus or the septopus and blob octopus. Despite its name, this species actually possesses eight arms, with males concealing one arm, called a hectocotylus, behind their eye for breeding purposes. While primarily an Atlantic species, there have been rare sightings of seven-arm octopuses on the Pacific coast in recent years.
The presence of these creatures in Pacific waters remains a mystery, with changing climates and currents potentially playing a role in their migration. Cook speculated that they might have been introduced through ballast water or other means, or they could be native to the region but have yet to be officially documented. Despite uncertainties, Cook noted that the specimen appeared healthy and uninjured, suggesting it was adapting well to its new environment.
Ongoing research in the Salish Sea may provide more insights into these unusual sightings, as scientists seek to understand the evolving dynamics of marine life in the region. While the likelihood of the octopus being a Pacific species is low, Cook emphasized the importance of monitoring its presence as it could indicate a shift in its distribution over time.
