Strategic Maternity, Octopus Nurseries near Hydrothermal Vents

In a groundbreaking discovery last June, researchers uncovered a rare sight in the depths of the Pacific Ocean: a hatchery teeming with life. Utilizing the remotely operated vehicle SuBastian, scientists identified two hydrothermal springs along with two octopus nurseries and one skate nursery in the vicinity of El Dorado Hill, Costa Rica. Subsequent expeditions, including one in December, confirmed the year-round activity of these octopus nurseries. Curled protectively on the dark seafloor, cephalopod mothers strategically selected this location, wrapping their tentacles defensively and exposing their sucker sides. In a remarkable display of adaptation, these mothers eschew eating during the lengthy brooding process, which can span years in the cold depths. By choosing to brood near the region's hydrothermal vents, which emit water at approximately 54 degrees Fahrenheit, they effectively shorten the incubation period, enhancing the chances of survival for their offspring.

Hydrothermal Havens, Unlocking Octopus Mysteries

For some scientists, the discovery of these hydrothermal habitats has sparked excitement rivaling that of finding the creatures they sustain. Prior to this revelation, only one other deep-sea octopus hatchery had ever been documented, situated off the coast of California. The congregating of cephalopods near these vents challenges the typical solitary nature of these creatures, promising new avenues of exploration in octopus research. As Beth Orcutt, a scientist at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences and lead scientist aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor, emphasizes, the confirmation of low-temperature hydrothermal venting away from mid-ocean ridges is a relatively recent development. These elusive sites, tucked away on ancient volcanoes, pose significant challenges for discovery, as their signatures remain undetectable in the water column.

Unveiling the Enigmatic Octopuses of El Dorado

Among the quartet of octopus species recently discovered near the vents, one stands out—the "Dorado" octopus, named after its initial sighting site. While this species is the sole recipient of an unofficial nickname, its resemblance to the pearl octopus (Muusoctopus robustus) found off California's coast has intrigued researchers. Sporting short arms and diminutive eyes, the Dorado octopus presents a distinctive silhouette in the ocean's depths.

In contrast, the other three species were observed farther from the vent ecosystem. Two of these species showcase traits typical of medium-sized octopuses belonging to the Muusoctopus genus, boasting two rows of suckers on their elongated arms, no ink sacs, and notably larger eyes than their Dorado counterpart.

However, the puzzle deepens with the fourth species. Sporting bumpy, pale skin and only a single row of suckers per arm, it defies easy classification, leaving the research team intrigued and eager for further investigation.

A Local Triumph in Deep-Sea Exploration

In a remarkable feat, over 310 deep-sea specimens were collected during expeditions in June and December and brought to the Museum of Zoology at the University of Costa Rica. This groundbreaking effort marks a departure from tradition, as it represents one of the first instances where all specimens from an octopus discovery remain within the Latin American country where they were found, as reported by Popular Science's Laura Baisas.

Dr. Cortés-Núñez emphasizes the lasting impact of the R/V Falkor expeditions on understanding Costa Rica's deep Pacific waters, expressing hope that they will lead to policies safeguarding the country's deep-sea ecosystems. This local collaboration sets a precedent for future exploration and underscores the need for international cooperation in preserving our deep-sea heritage.