Scientists Identify New Blue Octopus Species Near Galapagos Islands

A submersible operated by scientists from the Charles Darwin Foundation encountered a small blue octopus on the ocean floor near the Galapagos Islands at a depth of about 5,900 feet. The sighting occurred in 2015 near Darwin Island, and the specimen was later examined by researchers. The animal was identified as a new species after analysis at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.

Because only one specimen was available, the team used CT scans to create a three-dimensional model instead of dissecting the animal. The scans revealed internal structures without damaging the specimen. The new species, named Microeledone galapagensis, has a light blue upper surface and a deep purple underside.

It also features stubby arms with a single row of suckers and smooth skin on its back.

The octopus belongs to the Megaleledonidae family but is smaller than other members, which typically live in the Southern Ocean. Researchers noted that its coloration may help conceal prey items that emit light. Janet Voight stated that the species is the first new octopus she has led a team in describing during her four-decade career.

The research was published in the journal Zootaxa on Monday. There are approximately 300 known octopus species worldwide. The Pacific Ocean remains largely unexplored, and new deep-sea species continue to be documented in areas that have received limited study.