Mystery as Seven-Arm Deep-Sea Octopus Washes Up on Scottish Beach

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A rare deep-sea discovery stunned beachgoers in Scotland when the remains of a seven-arm octopus washed ashore at Forvie National Nature Reserve. The unusual find has sparked curiosity among marine experts and the public alike, as this species is rarely seen near UK waters.

Mystery as Seven-Arm Deep-Sea Octopus Washes Up on Scottish Beach

A Rare Encounter on the Shore

On November 30, a walker at Collieston, near Ellon in Aberdeenshire, spotted strange tentacles lying on the sand. After alerting reserve staff, the remains were identified as belonging to a seven-arm octopus (Haliphron atlanticus), also known as the giant gelatinous octopus or blob octopus. This species is considered one of the largest octopuses in the world, typically inhabiting deep waters hundreds of meters below the surface.

Why Seven Arms?

Despite its name, the seven-arm octopus actually has eight arms like other octopuses. In males, however, one arm is modified into a reproductive organ used during mating, giving the impression of only seven functional arms. This unique adaptation makes the species particularly fascinating to marine biologists.

Significance of the Find

  • Extremely rare sighting: The seven-arm octopus is seldom documented in UK waters, making this discovery notable for science and conservation.
  • Deep-sea mystery: These creatures usually live far below the ocean’s surface, so their appearance on a Scottish beach raises questions about currents, environmental changes, or natural mortality.
  • Public intrigue: The unusual remains have captured public imagination, with many referring to the animal as a “septopus,” adding to its mythical aura.

Expert Insights

Marine experts emphasize that such strandings provide valuable opportunities to study deep-sea species that are otherwise difficult to observe. The washed-up remains may help researchers better understand the biology, distribution, and ecological role of Haliphron atlanticus.

Conclusion

The seven-arm octopus discovery in Aberdeenshire is a reminder of the ocean’s mysteries and the rare glimpses we sometimes get of its hidden inhabitants. While the sight may seem eerie, it offers scientists and the public alike a chance to marvel at the diversity of marine life.

Source: Yahoo News UK – Remains of seven-arm deep-sea creature discovered on Scots beach; YouTube – Rare Forvie Beach Find: Seven-Arm Octopus


Location: United States

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