top of page

The Pacific Octopus Is A Hardworking Mama

The female Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) exhibits remarkable parental care...

The female Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) exhibits remarkable parental care to protect her eggs until they hatch. After mating, the female deposits her eggs in a cluster, which she attaches to the ceiling of her den or to a nearby rock using adhesive secretions. 


Once the eggs are secured, the female dedicates herself to guarding and caring for them. The female octopus remains vigilant, constantly guarding her eggs against potential threats. She uses her arms to gently envelop the egg cluster, keeping them close to her body and away from predators. 


To ensure a steady supply of oxygen to the developing embryos, the female periodically fans the egg cluster with her arms, creating water currents that promote oxygen exchange. The female octopus cleans the egg cluster by gently blowing water over them and removing any debris or sediment that may accumulate on the egg capsules. This helps maintain a clean and healthy environment for the developing embryos. 


If threatened by predators or intruders, the female octopus displays aggressive behavior to deter potential attackers. She may use her arms to fend off threats or release ink to create a distraction while she defends her eggs. In some cases, the female Pacific octopus may even sacrifice herself to protect her eggs. 


After the eggs hatch, the female's energy reserves are depleted from the months-long brooding process, and she typically dies shortly afterward. This act of self-sacrifice ensures the survival of her offspring.

ADVERTISEMENTS

facts.png
FACTS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN
Why the Middle Finger Is Such an Old Insult
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Why the Middle Finger Is Such an Old Insult

Homes That Outsmarted the Tax Collector
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Homes That Outsmarted the Tax Collector

Why Most Orange Cats Are Boys
SCIENCE & NATURE

Why Most Orange Cats Are Boys

Cleopatra’s Breath Might Be in Your Lungs Right Now
SCIENCE & NATURE

Cleopatra’s Breath Might Be in Your Lungs Right Now

From Awkward Moment to Medical Marvel
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

From Awkward Moment to Medical Marvel

Did Avocado Toast Really Ruin Millennials’ Housing Dreams?
FOOD & DRINK

Did Avocado Toast Really Ruin Millennials’ Housing Dreams?

ADVERTISEMENT

popular.png
POPULAR NOW
Photograph of the original constitution
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Organizations That Support Peace

Image of camel with Google camera in the desert
SCIENCE & NATURE

When Google Used A Camel to Map the Desert

Photograph of a lamb
SCIENCE & NATURE

How Ranchers Know When Sheep Have Mated (Without Guessing)

Painting of the The Charge of The Light Brigade
HISTORY & INNOVATIONS

Before it Was Cozy, It Was Controversial

FOOD & DRINK

Ice Made the Cocktail Possible

Image of futuristic tech cube
SCIENCE & NATURE

The Spark That Launched San Francisco's Tech Scene

ADVERTISEMENT

bottom of page