Monday Archives: What a Trooper – Octopus Broods Eggs for Record 4 1/2 Years Before Dying

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Invertebrates | 0 comments

The Monterey Bay Aquarium published a paper to the Public Library of Science on Wednesday detailing their findings of a deep sea female Graneledone boreopacifica octopus found with a clutch of eggs in May of 2007. Identifiable by the scars and markings on her mantle, the scientists returned to the site off the California coast a total of 18 times until she finally met her demise four-and-a-half years later. Dubbed “Octomom” by the scientists, she laid approximately between 155 to 165 eggs per clutch. Most mothers pass away after only their first clutch, which makes these findings quite shocking. Lack of predation due to her low depth, low water temperature and low metabolic demand due to her inactivity is attributed to her extreme lifespan. You can read more of the fascinating details at Newsweek.com.

  • Caitlin Nichole

    I'm a New York Reef Enthusiast and Fish Nerd, amateur photographer, dog lover, beer brewer/drinker, cocktail mixer, semi-seasoned chef, Prosecco Indulging, lightly foul-mouthed, slightly antagonistic, sorta-artistic, wordy bookworm of a girl. Dog mommy of three, an Abyssinian dubbed "Mau", plus one Dwarf Cuttlefish and a few Clarions. I have a tattoo of an Octopus with flowers on my rear. I ride my bike to the beach and sip bourbon with a good (reef) book while watching the waves. I like to think I'm witty and charming - but I'll let you decide.

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