Common Octopus

Care Summary

The Common Octopus is a large, intelligent predator that grows up to three feet in arm span and requires a dedicated tank of 100 gallons or more with an absolutely escape-proof lid and cover on every single opening. This is a species-only animal with no exceptions, as it will eat fish, shrimp, crabs, and any other invertebrate in the tank, and it is powerful enough to pry apart poorly secured acrylic or glass tops. They are short-lived, typically one to two years, and are prone to stress-related illness if conditions are not optimal, so stable water quality, low ambient light, and plenty of dens are non-negotiable. Feed live or frozen crabs, shrimp, clams, and whole fish three to four times weekly, and vary the diet to maintain hunting engagement and prevent nutritional deficiencies.