Contributing To Octopus Understanding

Contributing To Octopus Understanding

Associate Curator of Invertebrates Janet Voight was asked to contribute to a book dedicated to octopuses over four years ago and, finally, the 464-page tome, Octopus Biology and Ecology, was recently released by Elsevier.

Janet contributed a chapter on Graneledone pacifica and coauthored two other chapters (one on global biodiversity and biogeography of coastal octopuses and one on past, present, and future trends in octopus research) for this impressive publication. With contributions from nearly 100 experts, the volume describes important aspects of the lives of these fascinating animals, including their origin, biogeography, life history, distribution, behaviour, migratory patterns, diet, predators, and parasites. The emphasis is on species in highly variable coastal environments and includes a discussion of the potential threats and unexpected benefits of our changing climate and oceans. The book provides detailed accounts for 21 species selected from around the world, each of which is described by local experts. The final chapter provides a detailed breakdown of research on octopuses and the topic areas in which this field is likely to expand in the future, recognizing in particular the growing importance of research into the effects of global changes. Besides climate change, key areas covered include behavior and cognition, iEcology and citizen science, bio-robotics, deep-sea research, and culture and welfare.
June 7. 2024