Coconut Octopus

Coconut Octopus

Amphioctopus marginatus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Coconut Octopus, also known as the Veined Octopus, is an intelligent cephalopod found in tropical Indo-Pacific waters. It is renowned for its unique behavior of using discarded coconut shells, bivalve shells, or other debris as portable shelters and for defense, often walking bipedally while carrying them. This species preys on crustaceans and bivalves, primarily hunting during dusk and dawn.

Max Length 50 cm
Max Weight 0.7 kg
Lifespan 3 - 5 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 200 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Crepuscular
Social Behavior Solitary
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Coconut Octopus

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Coconut Octopus

Range

Where Coconut Octopus has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Coconut Octopus

Where can you see the Coconut Octopus?

The Coconut Octopus can be seen at 11 dive destinations in Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Gili Islands (Indonesia), Kapalai (Malaysia), Koh Lipe (Thailand), and Lembeh Strait (Indonesia).

What is the best time to see the Coconut Octopus?

Sightings of the Coconut Octopus peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October and Tubbataha Reefs from April to June.

Can you see the Coconut Octopus all year round?

Yes. At Kapalai, Lembeh Strait, and Mabul, the Coconut Octopus is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Coconut Octopus in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Coconut Octopus at Anilao, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

Where can you see the Coconut Octopus in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Coconut Octopus at Gili Islands, Lembeh Strait, and Raja Ampat.

Where can you see the Coconut Octopus in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Coconut Octopus at Kapalai, Mabul, and Sipadan.

How big does the Coconut Octopus get?

The Coconut Octopus can reach up to 50 cm in length and 0.7 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Coconut Octopus live in?

The Coconut Octopus is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and open water.

How deep does the Coconut Octopus live?

The Coconut Octopus lives from the surface down to 200 m.

What does the Coconut Octopus eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Coconut Octopus most active?

Most active in the low light of dawn and dusk, which is when it tends to hunt.

Does the Coconut Octopus live in groups?

No. The Coconut Octopus is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Coconut Octopus live?

The Coconut Octopus lives 3 to 5 years.

What is the conservation status of the Coconut Octopus?

The Coconut Octopus is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Coconut Octopus. Spotted something that looks off?

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