OCTOPUS VULGARIS

The common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) is one of the most fascinating creatures you can meet while diving in Tenerife. Despite its soft body, it can grow up to 1.3 meters in arm span and weigh over 10 kilograms. These masters of camouflage can change their color, texture, and even shape in seconds, blending perfectly with volcanic rocks, sand, and coral.

Around Tenerife, octopuses are usually found hiding in rocky crevices, lava tunnels, and small caves, especially in shallow to mid-depth areas. During the day, they often stay hidden, guarding their dens with carefully arranged shells and stones like a personal “front door.” At night, they become active hunters, searching for crabs, shrimp, and small fish.

One of the most amazing facts about octopuses is their intelligence. They can solve puzzles, open jars, recognize people, and even escape from closed tanks. Each arm works almost independently, with its own mini “brain,” allowing them to explore and manipulate objects with incredible precision.

Octopuses also have three hearts and blue blood, adapted for life in the ocean. When they feel threatened, they release a cloud of ink and disappear in a flash, leaving divers amazed by their sudden vanishing act.

Meeting an octopus in the clear Atlantic waters of Tenerife is always a special moment — curious, clever, and mysterious, it feels like diving with one of the ocean’s true geniuses.