Octopodes

Octopodes

Why it Matters? 

  • A new study in Scientific Reports says that octopodes have dominant arms to explore their surroundings and use the other arms to move — a discovery that shows octopus intelligence includes subtle bodily strategies that divide work between different parts. 

 What you should know? 

  • Octopodes belong to Phylum Mollusca 

  • They inhabit various ocean habitats, including coral reefs, pelagic waters, and the seabed. 

  • They have a complex nervous system and excellent sight, and are among the most intelligent and behaviourally diverse invertebrates. 

  • Ecological importance: 

  • Its place in food chain is higher than crabs, fish, and mollusks and lower than sharks, dolphins, marine mammals.  

  • Quick adaptation: Octopuses have a short lifespan and rapid reproduction cycle, allowing them to quickly adapt to changing environmental conditions.