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Project Noah Nature School
Octopus cyanea
Large octopus, the commonest on Indo-Pacific reefs. Brown colour, with important and fast changes, affecting also the skin texture. Identified by an oval false eye at the tentacle basis (not present in every colour display), and by the dark brown tentacle tips with 2 regular rows of lighter spots. Body 16 cm, tentacles 80 cm. The 3 photos are of the same octopus. The day habits and colour distinguish this species from Octopus luteus. The false eye is not always visible, it is necessary to observe it carefully during its colour changes.
Encountered on back reef, reef front and external reef. It feeds on crustaceans and fishes, that searches among the corals. Uneasy to see for its cryptic habits.
Spotted on Mar 10, 2013
Submitted on Mar 12, 2013
