Common octopus

Octopus vulgaris

Family Octopodidae - octopods

Distinguishing
Characteristics
Head globular; 8 arms with suckers attached to head; color variable, usually mottled reddish brown; texture smooth or with points; arms stout, 3-4 times the body length, arms about equal in length, dorsal arms slightly shorter; 2 longitudinal rows of suckers on arms, dark rings around the suckers; no distinct bars, bands or spots; no blue rings below eyes.
Similar Species
Other octopi have markings (bands, bars, spots) or short arms or unequal arms.
Habitat
Reefs, rocks, grass beds
Maximum Size
130 cm (51 in) total length, 40 cm (15 3/4 in) mantle length
Other Common Names
Previous Scientific Names
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