New Species of Octopus Discovered in the Depths of Australia

During an expedition to a deep-sea canyon off the coast of Australia, researchers identified a new species of octopus living in the abyssal zones of the ocean. The discovery was recently published in the Australian Journal of Taxonomy on the 13th of this month.

This deep-sea resident was given the scientific name Opisthoteuthis carnarvonensis, commonly referred to as the Carnarvon flapjack octopus, named after the region where it was found. The expedition was carried out aboard the research vessel RV Investigator, operated by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia’s national science agency.

The so-called flapjack octopuses belong to a group known as cirrate octopuses, which are famous for their unique features. Around 50 species of this group are currently documented worldwide, with 15 of them inhabiting Australian waters.

The nickname “flapjack” isn’t random — this octopus has an incredible ability to flatten its body against the seafloor, resembling a pancake. Alternatively, it can spread itself out to look like a delicate, jelly-like umbrella.

Beyond its fascinating appearance, this species is perfectly adapted to the dark, deep-sea environment. Its large eyes are a crucial tool for detecting prey in low-light conditions. Its diet mainly consists of marine worms and small crustaceans, which it captures skillfully using its tentacles.

This remarkable discovery once again highlights how much of the ocean remains unexplored and how every deep-sea dive has the potential to reveal species previously unknown to science.

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