Hidden beneath the ocean's depths lie creatures of both fascination and dread. With sharp teeth, eerie countenances, and otherworldly luminescence, these denizens of the deep remain largely concealed in the cloak of darkness that shrouds their habitat. Among them is the Grimpoteuthis, affectionately known as the Dumbo octopus – a cephalopod genus with an appearance as endearing as the beloved Disney character from which it draws its name.
These peculiar creatures possess stubby arms, a frilly mantle, expressive large eyes, and distinctive flappy "ears." If not for the challenges of bringing them to the surface – an endeavor that causes them to disintegrate like gelatin in the sun – they might well be the star attractions in aquariums worldwide.
During an exploration mission conducted by researchers aboard the Ocean Exploration Trust's E/V Nautilus, a remarkable encounter took place. At a depth of 2,665 meters (8,743 feet) beneath the ocean's surface, their remotely operated vehicle (ROV) chanced upon a Dumbo octopus, gracefully drifting in the abyss. These creatures typically attain a modest size of 20 to 30 centimeters, far from the colossal proportions of legendary sea monsters. Instead, they navigate the depths with remarkable grace, hovering just above the seafloor, propelled by prominent fins extending from their mantle.
In this harsh environment, sustenance is scarce, and the Dumbo octopus must conserve its energy. Its diet comprises occasional morsels such as mollusks, isopods, or worms. With their umbrella-like webbing and hair-like "cirri" on their arms, they delicately capture and guide their prey into their mouths.
In contrast to their shallow-water relatives, the ancestors of these deep-sea "cirrate" cephalopods have shed many adaptations. They have dispensed with ink sacs for quick escapes and the dazzling chromophores on their skin, once used for communication and camouflage.
Now, they traverse the abyss as semi-translucent phantoms, haunting the depths like spectral entities. Female Dumbo octopuses carry clutches of eggs, a testament to their resilience in a desolate environment where encounters with potential mates are rare.
WATCH:
Though the circumstances may sound somber, life in this abyss provides a refuge from the disturbances of human activity. Apart from sporadic encounters with deep-sea fishing nets, these enigmatic creatures remain untouched by human interference.
Read More: Google's 25th Birthday
One scientist aboard the E/V Nautilus, during a recorded live stream, expressed her delight, saying, "Yeah, I'm so glad we got to see this after seeing the one that was, you know…" Her colleague completed the thought, "…getting munched on."
The E/V Nautilus is currently on its Ala ʻAumoana Kai Uli (NA154) expedition, focused on exploring the biology and geology of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, situated northwest of Hawaii. While much of this region remains uncharted, it is known to house the sunken remnants of ships from the Battle of Midway. The researchers eagerly anticipate adding this discovery to their impressive list of achievements.
Among the many enigmatic encounters in the depths, stumbling upon a rare Dumbo octopus is undoubtedly one of the more heartwarming and captivating possibilities.
