The clear waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands are home to various species of octopuses. These intelligent cephalopods navigate the underwater world with captivating grace. As invertebrates without bones, octopuses exhibit incredible flexibility and adaptability, adding to Hawaii’s rich marine biodiversity.
Octopus Species Native to Hawaii
Two octopus species are commonly observed in Hawaii. The Day Octopus (Octopus cyanea) is a prevalent inhabitant of shallow reefs. This species displays a mottled brown and tan coloration, which helps it blend into its surroundings. As its name suggests, the Day Octopus is most active during daylight hours, often seen hunting for prey.
Another common species is the Night Octopus (Callistoctopus ornatus), also known as the ornate octopus or he’e-mÄkoko. This nocturnal species is characterized by its rusty red hue and distinct white spots on its body and arms. Both species reach an arm span of two to three feet and a maximum weight of 10 pounds.
Where Hawaiian Octopuses Live
Hawaiian octopuses inhabit a variety of marine environments across the archipelago. The Day Octopus (Octopus cyanea) thrives in shallow, warm waters abundant with coral reefs and rocky outcrops, extending down to depths of 150 feet. These areas provide ample opportunities for octopuses to find shelter and hunt for food. Their preferred habitats, including coral rubble and live coral, offer diverse textures and colors.
Octopuses establish temporary dens in rock crevices or under overhangs. The Night Octopus (Callistoctopus ornatus) is also found on shallow reefs, particularly where the reef transitions to sand. These habitats provide protection from predators and access to their primary food sources.
Remarkable Octopus Adaptations
Hawaiian octopuses exhibit adaptations that contribute to their survival in marine environments. Their ability to change skin color, pattern, and even texture almost instantaneously is a primary defense mechanism. This rapid camouflage, controlled by specialized pigment cells called chromatophores, allows them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, evading predators and ambushing prey. They can alter their appearance to match rocks, corals, or sand, becoming nearly invisible.
Octopuses are also intelligent invertebrates, possessing well-developed nervous systems and large brains relative to their body size. They demonstrate problem-solving skills, learning from experience, and using tools or manipulating objects. For instance, they have been observed opening jars and constructing makeshift shelters using items like coconut shells. Their eight arms, which contain two-thirds of their neurons, can function independently, allowing for complex movements and tasks.
Octopuses in Hawaii’s Ecosystem and Culture
Octopuses play an important role in Hawaii’s marine ecosystem as both predators and prey. They primarily feed on crustaceans, such as shrimp, lobsters, and crabs, and molluscs, including cowry snails. Their dens are identifiable by the piles of discarded shells from their meals found outside the entrance. This predatory behavior helps regulate populations within the reef, contributing to the overall health and balance of the marine food web.
In Hawaiian culture, the octopus, known as “he’e” (pronounced heh-eh), holds a special place. It is associated with Kanaloa, one of the four major Hawaiian gods, symbolizing the ocean, navigation, and the underworld. The he’e represents adaptability, intelligence, and transformation in legends, with its ability to change color and shape. Traditional Hawaiian fishing methods for octopus include spearfishing and using lures made with cowry shells, reflecting a long-standing cultural connection and respect for the creature.