Blue-Ringed Octopus

Blue-Ringed Octopus

Hapalochlaena spp.

Not Evaluated
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DESCRIPTION

Hapalochlaena spp., commonly known as blue-ringed octopuses, are a genus of highly venomous cephalopods found in shallow Indo-Pacific waters. Despite their small size, typically 10-25 cm, they possess a potent neurotoxin (tetrodotoxin) capable of paralyzing prey and posing a danger to humans if provoked. They are characterized by iridescent blue rings that flash as a warning when the animal feels threatened.

Max Length 25 cm
Max Weight 100 g
Lifespan 0.5 - 2 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 50 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Variable
Social Behavior Solitary
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Blue-Ringed Octopus

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Blue-Ringed Octopus

Range

Where Blue-Ringed Octopus has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Blue-Ringed Octopus

Where can you see the Blue-Ringed Octopus?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus can be seen at 22 dive destinations in Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, and Thailand. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Kapalai (Malaysia), Apo Reef (Philippines), Gili Islands (Indonesia), and Great Barrier Reef (Australia).

What is the best time to see the Blue-Ringed Octopus?

Sightings of the Blue-Ringed Octopus peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October, Kapalai from March to October, Komodo from March to October, and Lembeh Strait from March to October.

Where can you see the Blue-Ringed Octopus in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Blue-Ringed Octopus at Anilao, Apo Reef, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

Where can you see the Blue-Ringed Octopus in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Blue-Ringed Octopus at Kapalai, Lankayan, Mabul, and Sipadan.

Where can you see the Blue-Ringed Octopus in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Blue-Ringed Octopus at Gili Islands, Komodo, Lembeh Strait, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

How big does the Blue-Ringed Octopus get?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus can reach up to 25 cm in length and 100 g in weight.

What habitat does the Blue-Ringed Octopus live in?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Blue-Ringed Octopus live?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus lives from the surface down to 50 m.

What does the Blue-Ringed Octopus eat?

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

When is the Blue-Ringed Octopus most active?

Its rhythm shifts with the season, the tide or the region, so the same species may be active by day in one place and by night in another.

Does the Blue-Ringed Octopus live in groups?

No. The Blue-Ringed Octopus is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Blue-Ringed Octopus live?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus lives 0.5 to 2 years.

What is the conservation status of the Blue-Ringed Octopus?

The Blue-Ringed Octopus is listed as Not Evaluated on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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

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