What is Dumbo Octopus?

About Dumbo Octopus:

• They are known as the deepest living of all octopus species.
• Genus: Grimpoteuthis spp.
• They get their name from their distinctive flapping fins that bear a striking resemblance to the oversized ears of the iconic Disney elephant character.
• There are about 17 species of Dumbo octopus that belong to a group called “umbrella octopus,” because they are able to float with an umbrella-like look to their mantle. 
• Distribution: Worldwide in tropical to temperate latitudes
• Features:
  • They live on the seafloor or hover just slightly above it at depths of depths of 3000 to 4000 m (9800 to 13000 ft).
  • They are small animals, around 8 inches tall, and have a pair of fins located on their mantle and webbing between their arms.
  • The octopuses also have a single line of about 65-68 suckers along each arm.
  • Unlike most octopuses, this sea creature doesn’t have ink sacs, which are normally used as a defensive mechanism. 
  • It uses its ear-like fins to propel through the water and steers using its webbed arms.
  • Diet: It consumes snails, worms and other creatures that live near the ocean floor.