Four New Octopus Species Discovered in Pacific Ocean
An international team aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor discovered four new deep-sea octopus species near Costa Rica. These findings, including a distinct Muusoctopus species, help expand our understanding of deep-sea ecosystems.
By Beth Snider · January 23, 2024
Researchers aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) have unveiled the existence of at least four new deep-sea octopus species within a 100-square-mile area off the coast of Costa Rica. Led by Drs. Beth Orcutt and Jorge Cortés, an international team of scientists made these remarkable findings during expeditions in June and December of 2023.
During the initial expedition in June, the team identified two octopus nurseries associated with hydrothermal springs. Upon their return in December, the team confirmed the year-round activity of these nurseries and identified several additional octopus species in proximity to the hydrothermal springs.
Among the newfound octopus species is a distinct Muusoctopus, which will be named Dorado Octopus after the location of its discovery near a small outcrop of rock known as El Dorado Hill. The species, which is closely related but different from the Pearl Octopus, was seen caring for its eggs at hydrothermal springs.
"Through hard work, our team discovered new hydrothermal springs offshore Costa Rica and confirmed that they host nurseries of deep-sea octopus and unique biodiversity"
Expedition leaders Dr. Janet Voight and Fiorella Vasquez are currently describing the four newly discovered species. Dr. Voight, the associate curator of invertebrate zoology at the Field Museum of Natural History, and Vasquez from the Zoological Museum at the University of Costa Rica are meticulously documenting the characteristics and behaviors of these intriguing creatures.
The observations of brooding mother octopuses with their tentacles and suckers facing outward suggest a defensive position to ward off predators. The researchers note that during the brooding period, which can span multiple years, female octopuses do not eat and often die around the time their eggs hatch.
The expeditions have contributed to the knowledge of deep-sea ecosystems and introduced a new method for collecting and preserving specimens. More than 160 deep-sea animal specimens gathered during the December expedition will be stored in the Museum of Zoology at the University of Costa Rica. This represents a shift from the usual practice of sending specimens to the United States or Europe, providing local scientists and students with greater accessibility for research purposes. Additionally, it may offer insights for the development of regional conservation strategies for deep-sea environments.
"Drs. Cortés and Orcutt formed a team that truly exemplifies international collaboration, which empowers scientists within Costa Rica and enriches local knowledge and understanding of the Ocean."
Beyond the octopus discoveries, the science team found a thriving deep-sea skate nursery at the top of another seamount, humorously nicknamed “Skate Park.” Additionally, three hydrothermal springs with distinct fluid temperatures and chemistries were located.
"The impact of the R/V Falkor (too) expeditions on understanding the deep Pacific waters of Costa Rica will last into the future and hopefully create awareness that evolves into policies to protect the deep sea of the country. I hope that the expedition serves as an inspiration for new generations. We need more international collaborations to advance knowledge of our deep-sea heritage."
The Schmidt Ocean Institute plans to continue its research off the coasts of Peru and Chile in 2024.