[WATCH] Ghostly Footage of Rare Dumbo Octopus Captured in the Deep Sea

In the depths of the ocean, where darkness conceals creatures of formidable aspect, one finds an exception. Scientifically known as Grimpoteuthis, the Dumbo octopus is a genus of cephalopod that is terrifying but also adorable as the big-eared elephant Disney character it is named after.

Sporting short arms, two large eyes, and distinctive flappy ears, these creatures would undoubtedly steal the spotlight in any aquarium if only they could survive the transition to the surface without dissolving like gelatin in the sun.

ROV Captures the Dumbo Octopus

During an expedition aboard the Ocean Exploration Trust's E/V Nautilus, researchers encountered one of these charming creatures floating gracefully before their remotely operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of 2,665 meters (8743 feet) in an unnamed seamount, ScienceAlert reported.

The researchers provided some context in their statement: "As spooky season is almost upon us, it seems like this Dumbo Octopus was getting in the mood by reflecting light from our technology."

"Looking appropriately 'ghostly' in front of our ROV Atalanta's camera, our Corps of Exploration spotted this cephalopod hovering above ROV Hercules as it explored the ocean floor 1,682 meters (5,518 feet, 920 fathoms) deep on an unnamed seamount in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Watch as this fan-favorite deep sea creature hovers delicately in front of our camera, reminding us of the beauty of this special place," they added.

The expedition, codenamed Ala ʻAumoana Kai Uli (NA154), is focused on gathering crucial data to address the local management and scientific needs of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

It includes gaining a deeper understanding of the natural and cultural resources of the deep sea, studying the biogeographical patterns of species distributions, and uncovering the geological history of the seamount.

All About the Dumbo Octopus

The Dumbo octopus is a genus of deep-sea octopuses that belong to the family Opisthoteuthidae. They are named after the iconic Disney character, Dumbo, due to their prominent ear-like fins.

These unique creatures are characterized by their distinct appearance. They have a spherical mantle, short and stubby arms, large eyes, and a web-like structure between their arms, which resembles a skirt.

Dumbo octopuses are well-adapted to the extreme conditions of the deep sea, where they inhabit depths ranging from several hundred to several thousand meters below the surface.

One of the most fascinating features of Dumbo octopuses is their ability to hover and swim like a flying creature, using their ear-like fins to propel themselves through the water. They are capable of both vertical and horizontal movement, allowing them to navigate their deep-sea habitats with agility.

Dumbo octopuses primarily feed on small prey such as crustaceans and other tiny marine organisms. Due to the depths at which they live, very little is known about their behavior, reproduction, and life cycle.

Humans rarely encounter these octopuses, and are typically studied through remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or submersibles used in deep-sea exploration. Their elusive nature and enigmatic behavior make them a subject of great interest for marine biologists and researchers studying the mysteries of the deep sea.