Atlantic Long Arm Octopus

FIRST COME FIRST SERVED

Important Notes: Octopus do very well here and I've had tanks with several for over a month and have not lost one. But in shipping they are very sensitive and will sometimes ink or just die before arriving. They are also very sensitive to new water and need a VERY slow one to two hour acclamation.

The Atlantic Long Arm Octopus (Macrotritopus defilippi) is one of the most unique and fascinating cephalopods available to advanced marine hobbyists. Known for its extremely long, slender arms and remarkable intelligence, this species offers a level of interaction and behavior that few marine animals can match.

Native to sandy and rubble-strewn bottoms in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Long Arm Octopus prefers open sand areas with access to rocks or shells for shelter. It is best known for its incredible camouflage abilities, including its famous flounder-mimicking display used to evade predators. During the day it often remains buried or hidden, becoming more active and inquisitive as the lights dim.

This octopus is highly intelligent, curious, and interactive, but it requires a secure, species-only aquarium with a tightly sealed lid, fine sand substrate, and plenty of enrichment. Due to its predatory nature, it is not reef safe and will prey on fish and invertebrates. Feeding typically consists of live or frozen meaty foods such as crabs, shrimp, and other crustaceans.

Quick Facts:

• Care Level: Advanced
• Temperament: Curious, Predatory
• Maximum Size: Mantle ~3 inches; arms up to 12+ inches
• Tank Size: 50 gallons with secure lid.
• Diet: Carnivore (crustaceans, meaty frozen foods)
• Reef Safe: No- will eat crustaceans and other small fish
• Compatibility: Best in a sealed tank by themselves. Acclimate very slowly, sensitive to synthetic salts.
• How common to our area: Usually have them in stock October - May. The rest of the year they are hard to come by.
• Sizes:
  • Small: Mantle size about 1-1.5"
  • Medium: Mantle size about 1.5-2"
  • Large: Mantle size about 2-3"

If you’re looking for a truly extraordinary marine animal and have the experience to meet its needs, the Atlantic Long Arm Octopus is an unforgettable addition that brings intelligence, behavior, and personality front and center in your aquarium.