Octopus

[JohnniG]

So there are a lot of exotic fish for us saltwater enthusiasts, like sharks and stingrays. However, sharks and stingrays aren't reef safe and req. a lot of space. So my question is, as the newbie I am, is there any octopus fish to keep in a tank?

 

[Cloudburst2000]

Obviously, you have alot learn as an octopus is not even a fish. It is a cephalopod and is included under that section of the board. Also, a newbie won't be experienced enough to keep an octopus. They are considered an expert level animal.

 

[JohnniG]

Okay, thank you. But they are keepable then? Not that I am going to get one, just curious.

 

[Cloudburst2000]

yes, some are but some are not. they also have short life spans compared to most animals in the hobby. many only live around two yrs and often less than that in our tanks because you rarely know the age of the animal you are buying.

 

[JohnniG]

Wow, thats crazy. I'll stay out of cephalopod territory for now

 

[Bernie21]

Not to mention they require species only tanks that must be extremely secure because they are expert escape artist and will eat anything and everything possible.

 

[sponger0]

And if they die...you can kiss the rest of your tank goodbye lol

 

[SushiGirl]

You don't put them in reef tanks, they have to be specialized tanks.

And if they die...you can kiss the rest of your tank goodbye lol

I've never heard that, and I've known quite a few people who have kept them and some who would be considered experts on them.

 

[JohnniG]

thanks for all of the answers guys

 

[Reef Bass]

As a high school biology student back in the stone age I kept a couple octopus. They were totally awesome though I can't recommend them for the marine aquarist. One oozed out of a tiny hole in the top of the covered tank overnight and made it halfway across the floor before drying out. The other laid eggs in the tank, defended them and then died as they are genetically programmed to do.

You think some fish can have cool personalities? Octos for sure do. They are highly observant and reactive. Patterns and textures on their skin can change rapidly. Their curiosity and hunting behavior is interesting as well.

To this day I almost feel guilty eating calamari. Almost.

 

[sponger0]

You don't put them in reef tanks, they have to be specialized tanks.





I've never heard that, and I've known quite a few people who have kept them and some who would be considered experts on them.

Ive read many articles that when they die, they can bomb a tank and fast