Octopus

Interesting Facts About Octopus Anatomy

When it comes to biology, the octopus breaks all the rules. Its body is a marvel of evolution, perfectly adapted for a life of hunting and hiding in complex marine environments.

How many hearts does an octopus have?

An octopus has three hearts. Two hearts work exclusively to pump blood through the gills, while a third, larger heart circulates blood to the rest of the body. This third heart actually stops beating when the octopus swims, which is why they often prefer to "crawl" along the seabed to conserve energy. Their blood isn't red like ours; it's blue because it uses a copper-based protein called haemocyanin to transport oxygen.

How many arms does an octopus have?

An octopus has eight arms, not tentacles. Often mistaken for tentacles, these powerful, flexible limbs are covered in suckers that can taste and smell as well as grip. An octopus can control each arm independently, using them to explore, handle objects and propel itself through the water.

Introducing the Octopus: BSL video

Want to learn more about Octopuses at SEA LIFE London Aquarium? Watch our BSL video to discover the secret life of our tentacled friends.

Top 8 Fun Octopus Facts

1. They have no bones: Their soft bodies mean they can squeeze through any opening larger than their beak.

2. They are ink-redible: When threatened, they can shoot a cloud of ink to confuse predators and make a quick getaway.

3. Over 300 species: There are around 300 recognised species of octopus found in every ocean in the world.

4. A lonely life: Most octopuses are solitary creatures and spend their lives alone.

5. Gardeners of the sea: They often collect shells and other objects to build protective shelters, known as "octopus gardens". 

6. A fatal love: For many species, mating is a fatal act. The male often dies soon after, and the female stops eating to guard her eggs, passing away after they hatch.

7. Jet-powered: They can move rapidly by expelling water from a muscular tube called a siphon, creating a form of jet propulsion.

8. Ancient ancestors: The earliest known octopus fossil dates back 296 million years.

Meet Our Octopuses in London

Ready to see this incredible animal up close? You can meet the amazing Common Octopus right here in SEAL LIFE London Aquarium. Witness its colour-changing abilities and watch as it intelligently explores its habitat. Plan your visit today to come face-to-face with one of the ocean's most fascinating minds.