Caribbean Reef Octopus

The Caribbean Octopus, Octopus briareus, noted for its brown and white-spotted appearance in a neutral state, is a master of disguise, thanks to its skin chromatophores. This allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. About 80% of its length is made up of its arms, with the remainder being its body, and it has a distinctive rectangular pupil.

Nocturnally active, it preys on small invertebrates and sleeping fish, using its eight tentacles for capture.

For captivity, it requires a spacious tank (50-75 gallons) with live rock, hiding spots, and a substrate of medium to coarse sand. The tank should have dim, actinic lighting and maintain a temperature of around 78°F. Avoid copper in any form, as it is toxic to octopuses.

The tank must be securely sealed to prevent escape and include protected intakes and outlets. Octopuses are known to rearrange their environment, reflecting their intelligence and curiosity.

Diet-wise, they can be fed live feeder shrimp, mussels, crustacean flesh, and small feeder fish, ideally supplemented with spirulina, plankton, and cyclops. Note, they are not suitable for reef tanks and are not reef-safe.