Key Information
The rarest of the known octopuses, the Cirrothauma magna has no common name due to lack of knowledge.
Size: around 170cm
Lifespan: Unknown, but predicted 1 - 2 years
Habitat: Deep waters of Indian, Atlantic and Pacific oceans
Only 4 specimens have ever been studied and sightings are extremely scarce. They live around 1300 to 5000m below surface sea level: this means you can only find them with specialist equipment.
It is predicted that the Cirrothauma magma is the largest species of octopus under the Cirrothauma genus. Like other cirrates, it lacks an ink sack and has a small, internal shell for support in swimming. It's mantle is approximately 30cm deep, allowing for fast jet propulsion.
Questions to be answered
Has human activity contributed to its rarity?
Are they rare, or do the majority of them live in an unexplored part of the ocean?
What are their predators? What is their diet like?
Are they nearing extinction and have we only discovered them at the end of their time on Earth?
REFERENCES
https://www.sealifebase.ca/summary/Cirrothauma-magna.html
Sea Life Base
(Year unknown)
Date published: 14th July 2023
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