Can You Keep An Octopus As A Pet? Here’s What You Need To Know

Can You Keep An Octopus As A Pet? Here’s What You Need To Know

The octopus is a highly intelligent and graceful creature, and it’s a joy to see in its natural habitat. Their naturally curious nature means they’re not skittish around humans, and some even form bonds with some lucky individuals. A few years ago, an Egyptian couple went viral on YouTube after they saved an octopus stranded on the beach. After moving it back to deeper waters, the octopus returned the next day and followed the couple along the beach, occasionally extending a tentacle to shake hands with the pair. With their intelligence and their ability to interact with humans, so many people can’t help but want to own their very own eight-legged pet. But can they be kept in captivity, and if so, how can we ensure their wellbeing while they’re away from the ocean? Here’s what you need to know about keeping an octopus as a pet.

Read Or Listen To The Article Click Here. Octopus Senses

The right aquarium matters

If you’re thinking about getting a pet octopus and placing it in the same tank that contains your pet fish, think again. Octopuses cannot be kept with other marine life, as they’re bound to eat them. Thus, you’ll need to get a separate tank to house your new pet. Moreover, since they tend to escape, you’ll need to get an escape-proof tank with extremely durable accessories since an octopus’ powerful tentacles can destroy them. They also need less light than fish, so you won’t need to install metal halide lights to illuminate your tank. Simplicity is key when setting up an aquarium for your cephalopod, so do away with the UV filter, heaters, and other fancy tank equipment, and just opt for a roomy and safe tank with a wet-dry filtration system.

Read Or Listen To The Article Click Here. Octopus Intelligence 

They have a short lifespan

Buying an octopus from a pet store can be more complicated than getting a goldfish: most vendors have stopped stockpiling octopuses, and are now only accepting custom orders to prevent illegal trade and to ensure the octopuses’ wellbeing. But even if you buy your pet octopus from a top-rated pet store, there’s no guarantee that they’ll live for years, as they have a very short lifespan. Most species will live only between one to two years, so you might want to consider this before making an investment.

Octopus Habitat Read Or Listen To The Article Click Here.

They can be expensive to feed

Octopus thrive on a diet of shrimps and crab, so you’ll need to make sure that you have a ready supply to feed your pet. They also feed on clams, small fish, and snails, and while most octopuses aren’t picky eaters, they may stop eating once they’re in a tank. This is a sign of stress, which may lead to malnutrition, illness, or death, so if your octopus isn’t eating, make sure to reduce their stress by giving them a bigger tank or creating more spaces where they can hide.

A pet octopus can be a fascinating addition to your home. Do your research before getting one, however, and make sure you have the time and resources to care for it to ensure that it lives well in your tank.

My personal opinion is that you really shouldn’t keep an octopus for a pet, thanks;-)

 

 

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