[Originally posted to the Moorea Coral Reef LTER (MCR LTER) Marine Life Encyclopedia]

Reef Octopus
(Octopus cyanea)

Photo by Gerick Bergsma

Octopuses possess complex eyes and well developed brains, and are extremely intelligent and inquisitive.


	Throughout the tropical Indopacific, from Africa and the Red Sea to Polynesia

	Exposed reefs and reef flats

	Crustaceans, mollusks and fish

	Reef octopuses are masters of camouflage and hiding. Lacking shells or bones, they can squeeze into impossibly small holes and crevices, and can change their color and skin texture to match almost any background (sand, coral, algae). If provoked, reef octopuses may flatten themselves and turn white to appear intimidating. If all else fails, octopuses can use jets of water to quickly propel themselves away from danger, and squirts of ink to confuse predators that might chase them.

	- Animal Diversity Web - Shedd Aquarium - Moorea Biocode Database