The Boy in the Submarine – Season 2, Episode 2: Coconut Octopi

Coconut Octopus image, CC-BY Christian Gloor

The Coconut Octopus is the cleverest species of cephalopod. They collect coconut shells, clam shells, or other objects they can squeeze into and hold closed. They use these tools to hide from predators and to sneak up on prey. They even carry handy hiding places around by using their arms to walk along the floor.

We have seen Coconut Octopi watch other creatures to figure out how alert they are. When they know prey isn’t paying attention, they shoot out of their hiding place, bite with their beak, and inject a powerful poison. They also change color to blend into their environment and show their feelings.