The Dumbo Octopus is the deepest-dwelling of all octopus species.
They hover just above the seafloor at extreme depths mostly throughout the Pacific and in this case, the Caribbean.
This octopus, also known as Grimpoteuthis, gained the nickname “Dumbo” because of its ear-like fins that flap and allow the octopus to maneuver.
These amazing octopods can be found in deep waters all over the world, with specimens having been found off the coast of Oregon, The Philippines, Martha’s Vineyard, Azores, New Zealand, Australia, California, Papua, and New Guinea.
This group has a unique method of movement: they use their ear-like fins to swim and propel themselves in any direction.
The arms allow this octopus to crawl along the ocean floor, hunt, lay eggs, and various tasks.
Take a look at this amazing little guy in action:
Some amazing footage was captured by the NautilusLive crew.
They agree that this little guy definitely deserves the “Dumbo” nickname.
“This Cirrate, or finned, octopods (which are also known as “dumbo” octopods because the fins on the sides of their bodies make them look like the flying elephant in the Disney cartoon) can be divided based on their behavior. Some, like this one, spend a lot of time sitting on the bottom but sometimes gets up and swim by a combination of fin flapping and jellyfish-like pulses of the arms and web.”
