Octopus Behavior

From April 2021 through September 2022, I was looking at the behavior of the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides) through countless hours of observation and by conducing controlled feeding trials in our facilities at Long Marine Lab. By varying prey type (live crabs vs. clams) and water temperature, I'm examining the ways that these voracious predators change how they search for, capture, and handle their prey in different cirumstances. Through looking at variables such as how long they wait before approaching and attacking, how use their exceptionally flexible body/arms and visual/chemotactile abilities, and the speed/acceleration with which they attack their prey, I'm hoping to demonstrate how this generalist kelp-forest mesopredator has adapted to its environment and influences its community.

Animal maintenance and experimental procedures were approved by the Institute of Animal Care and Use Committee at the University of California Santa Cruz (#2207).

(All photos by A. Lankow)