Lesser Octopus
Eledone cirrhosa
Habitat: Low shore, kelp forest and rocky reefs
Depth: Down to 400m
Food: Mainly crustaceans.
Length: Up to 50cm
Lifespan: 2 - 4 years
Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
The lesser octopus is related to squid and cuttlefish. It has no shell or skeleton and its soft body enables it to squeeze through tiny spaces. It uses its tentacles to walk and explore its surroundings but can swim using jet propulsion and will squirts ink when threated to confuse would be predators.
A master of disguise, the octopus can change its skin colour and texture to blend into almost any background it encounters in nature. It can even change its colour with its mood!