First discovered in 1998, this newbie creature has wowed scientists and divers with its incredible ability to mimic several different underwater species to hide, hunt, and escape.
With this genius impersonator just making its entrance into the science world, there are still many things to learn about this incredible being. Here is what we know about the mimic octopus so far.
Appearance
While the Mimic Octopus reaches about 60 cm in length and is seen as brown and white striped in its main form, this magnificent fellow can take on many appearances. SCUBA divers and researchers reported that mimic octopuses can resemble over 15 different species including anemones, jellyfish, mantis shrimp, feather stars, brittle stars, giant crabs, seahorses, crocodile snake eels, stingrays, and nudibranchs.
They can also change their colors and camouflage against the sandy river or sea beds.
Characteristics
Mimic octopuses are said to use their mimicry as possible protection, especially when they feed. They forage during daylight on open sand flats, where they are pretty vulnerable to any type of attack. This might be the reason why they mostly take on the form of poisonous and venomous marine animals for mimicking.
When feeding, this intriguing octopus shows both hunting and foraging behaviors. They take on different forms to hunt and stalk their prey while at the same time, they can also be seen foraging for food.
Diet & Prey
Mimic Octopuses are carnivorous, found in shallow, murky waters, and therefore, their diet mainly consists of small fish and crustaceans. This is mainly because these are the two animals that are commonly found in the areas the mimic octopus survives.
Habitat
First discovered in 1998 in Indonesia, the Mimic octopus can be found in river mouths and estuaries. They can also be found in the Indo-Pacific, mainly the Red Sea, New Caledonia, the Gulf of Thailand, the Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef in the south
Predators
The octopus is usually preyed on by predators like jellyfish, stingrays, sea snakes, lionfish, and the poisonous sole fish, among others. But the octopus’s talent at mimicry often drives away these predators.
Interesting Facts
- The mimic octopus is seen to be highly intelligent, especially towards its predators. The octopus learns which animals bother their predators and take on that form to drive away potential danger. For example, if they are bothered by damselfish, the mimic octopus takes the form of a sea snake that preys on damselfish.
- There are many strange ocean creatures that can camouflage. But in all marine life, only the mimic octopus and its close relative, the Wunderpus, are the ones known to actively imitate several other marine species.
- They can imitate over 15 different marine animals, notably venomous ones.
- The male mimic octopus dies after mating with the female, and the female dies as soon as she gives birth.
- Hank, the grumpy but sweet octopus from Finding Dory, is based on the Mimic Octopus
FAQs
What do mimic octopuses eat?
Living in shallow, murky waters, Mimic Octopus feeds on small fish, sea snakes, crabs, and more.
How long does a mimic octopus live for?
They live between 3 to 5 years. The male octopus dies after mating, while the female octopus dies after giving birth.
Where does the mimic octopus live?
They are mostly found in river mouths, estuaries, and the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Lately, they’ve been found in the Great Barrier Reef.
How big is the mimic octopus?
They are relatively small and reach only 2 feet in length. Their size makes it easier for them to hide in burrows.
What is the scientific name for the mimic octopus?
The scientific name for the mimic octopus is Thaumoctopus mimicus.
