Scientists using an ROV to explore deep-water habitat in the central Pacific were “photobombed” Monday by a dumbo octopus whose expressive displays before camera lights were as cute as they were entertaining.
Nautilus Live posted footage of the rare encounter, which occurred near Kingman Reef at a depth of 5,500 feet, along with a description that reads, in part:
“The Nautilus mission control erupts in excitement and adoration when a dumbo octopus (Grimpoteuthis sp.) photobombs our team’s survey of rocky ridges with ROV Hercules. Those ear-like fins help the octopus swim above the seafloor – and inspired its common name!”
“Awesome,” “Beautiful” and “Amazing” are just a few superlatives spoken during the brief encounter.
ALSO FROM FTW OUTDOORS: Anglers targeting small game land 350-pound goliath grouper
The dumbo octopus received its common name because its droopy fins resemble the ears of Dumbo the elephant, of Disney fame.
There are several species of dumbo octopuses, which can reside at depths of 13,000 feet, possibly deeper. They forage mostly on pelagic invertebrates, and are sometimes preyed upon by deep-diving fishes such as tuna and sharks.
–Images and video are courtesy of Nautilus Live
