Mysterious Predator of the Deep

by Ajah Dye, age 10

The common octopus is a unique animal with eight arms, large eyes, and a massive head. Although this animal looks kind of strange, it has a variety of fascinating skills.

The octopus has many ways to ward off predators. One way it protects itself is by spraying water from its mantle to propel it away from danger. Another method is using its soft body to squeeze through small cracks where other animals can’t follow it. If an octopus loses an arm, it can grow another one without any permanent damage.

When discovered, the octopus expels a cloud of black ink. The ink makes it difficult for predators to locate the octopus, giving it ample time to swim away. The ink also contains a substance that dulls the predator’s sense of smell, making it difficult to follow the octopus.

Camouflaging is a very important skill an octopus uses to protect itself from predators. The octopus has special pigment cells and muscles in its skin that help it blend in with its surroundings. When an octopus camouflages, like a chameleon, it can match the colors, patterns and textures of its surroundings. Another reason an octopus uses camouflage is so that it can sneak up on its prey before an attack.

The octopus usually preys on crabs, crayfish, and mollusks. When an octopus bites its prey, its venom paralyzes the animal so it can’t escape.

The common octopus inhabits tropical and temperate oceanic waters. It usually lives for about two years. The octopus can grow up to 36 inches long and weigh up to 22 pounds.

Octopuses collect crustacean shells and other objects to make boarders around their territories. This behavior shows that the common octopus is indeed a very intelligent sea creature.

[Source: Simpson Street Free Press Archives ]