World Octopus Day

World Octopus Day is dedicated to celebrating the unique and fascinating features of the octopus—a creature with three hearts, remarkable intelligence, and the ability to adapt quickly to its surroundings by changing color and texture. This special day was established in 2006 by The Octopus News Magazine Online and has been celebrated annually ever since.

History

Fossilized remains show that octopuses have existed for around 300 million years, making them even older than the dinosaurs. Despite their long history, much about octopuses remains mysterious, as scientists continue to study their extraordinary survival skills—thanks in part to 500 million neurons spread throughout their brains and tentacles. Octopuses are solitary creatures and are found both in shallow waters and at great ocean depths.

Interesting Facts

• Blue-ringed octopuses are among the most venomous marine animals in the world.
• When bored or stressed, octopuses may bite off their own tentacles.
• Octopuses are considered the most intelligent invertebrates on Earth and have the largest brains among invertebrates.
• They produce ink as a defense mechanism to escape predators and camouflage themselves.
• The smallest species, Octopus wolfi, weighs less than 1 gram.

How to Take Part

There are many ways to celebrate World Octopus Day! Learn more about these amazing animals by watching documentaries and reading about their lives, habitats, and behaviors. If you can, visit an aquarium to observe octopuses up close. You can also share fun facts or your favorite octopus stories on social media to spread awareness about these remarkable creatures. Celebrate World Octopus Day on October 8!

When is World Octopus Day in 2025?

World Octopus Day is observed on October 8 each year.

Observations