A Dumbo octopus was recorded for the first time in the Argentine Sea. during the Continental Slope IV scientific expedition, with a specimen of the Grimpoteuthis genus observed at a depth of 3.781 meters in the Mar del Plata Submarine Canyon thanks to the remotely operated vehicle ROV SuBastian.
With rounded fins over the eyes and a pinkish hue, The cephalopod appeared in a lightless environment, with about 2 °C and enormous pressure, in a non-invasive observation coordinated by the Schmidt Ocean Institute in collaboration with specialists from CONICET and INIDEP.
An unprecedented record in the Mar del Plata Canyon
The submarine slope and canyon exploration mission combined cutting-edge technology and biological expertise to document the octopus without removing it from its habitat, preserving the ecological context and natural behavior of the animal.
The team operated the ROV SuBastian nearly four kilometers below the surface and captured clear images of Grimpoteuthis moving over sediments with smooth movements, propelled by its fins and the membrane that connects its arms.
Those responsible for the study highlighted that This is the first record in national waters of an octopus from this group, highlighting the unusualness of the pink coloration described and the relevance of observing it alive in its environment.
What the Dumbo octopus looks like and why it's fascinating
The so-called Dumbo octopus belongs to the genus grimpoteuthis, recognized by the fins that emerge above the eyes and They resemble ears, a trait that allows it to maneuver and propel itself with great efficiency in deep water. If you'd like to learn more about the characteristics of this cephalopod, you can visit More information about the Dumbo octopus.
It is included among the so-called umbrella octopuses, a membrane-bound group that joins the arms and forms a compact and gelatinous profile, optimal for moving discreetly on the seabed.
The usual dimensions are around 20–30 centimeters, although larger individuals have been described. Its soft, translucent body facilitates camouflage and neutral buoyancy.
Unlike most octopuses, does not have an ink sacIn the abyssal darkness, chromatic camouflage and silent movement are more effective than unleashing a cloud.
It feeds on bottom invertebrates, including small mollusks, worms and crustaceans, which it captures with suction cups equipped with sensory filaments and leads to the mouth located in the center of the arms.
Adaptations to the abyss: blue blood, diet and movement
The Dumbo octopus's circulation uses copper-rich hemocyanin, which gives a bluish hue to the blood and improves oxygen transport in very cold and oxygen-poor waters, typical characteristics of the abyssal environment. Their biology and behavior also reveal surprising adaptations to life in the depths.
Their feeding strategy is based on locate, suck in, and swallow whole prey, a task facilitated by the absence of a prominent rigid beak and its ability to change color to go unnoticed by predators.
As for its locomotion, it alternates the flapping of its fins with undulating movements of the cloak and arms, generating stable, energy-efficient progress, ideal for an environment where every resource counts.
These animals loners whose reproduction is sporadic; the male transfers a sperm packet and the female you can store it for long periods to fertilize and lay eggs when conditions permit.