Octopuses, in general, are not a great choice for a pet. For one, they are incredibly intelligent and seem to easily get bored. One study [pdf] revealed that octopuses in small tanks outfitted with flowerpots, stones, beads and shells still showed signs of distress and even self-mutilation.13 nov 2013
Can you buy a baby octopus?
Many people prefer to buy a young octopus so that they can have their pet longer. Of course, there is nothing wrong with buying an adult octopus and giving it a good home. Occasionally octopuses are bought as gravid female who lays eggs shortly after purchase.8 mar 2019
Can I get an octopus as a pet?
Octopuses, in general, are not a great choice for a pet. For one, they are incredibly intelligent and seem to easily get bored. ... So your average fish tank setup probably isn't going to cut it for an octopus. Many species of octopus are also nocturnal.13 nov 2013
How much does it cost to buy an octopus?
Prices range from $20 to $1,000—with the bulk of pet octopuses priced between $30 and $100 as of January 2013. A 70-gallon tank—which is not an unusual choice for octopus enthusiasts wanting to provide their pet with plenty of room to roam—costs about $300.1 nov 2017
What kind of octopus can you have as a pet?
Octopus bimaculoides (bimac) seems to be the most popular pet octopus in the U.S. and is now often captive bred. It is diurnal (day active), not too large, and will interact with you.8 mar 2019
Can you keep octopus at home?
An octopus is one of the most fascinating and rewarding marine creatures you can keep in the home aquarium. ... If you're willing to take some time and effort, and you can afford shrimp and crabs for food, then maybe you'd like to consider keeping an octopus.
Can an octopus live in a freshwater aquarium?
Marine species need to conserve fresh water and at the same time expel salt. The octopus therefore pumps seawater through the gills and uses the kidneys to filter out fresh water from the ocean. ... So it is impossible for an octopus to cope with the osmotic change in freshwater.9 nov 2019
How big of an aquarium do I need for an octopus?
Common octopus can be as small as 12 inches long or as big as 24 to 36 inches. It will need a tank that is a minimum of 50 gallons. This species has been the one used most often by researchers. East Pacific red octopus, or ruby octopus, is on the small side and can live in a smaller aquarium.
Why is there no octopus in aquariums?
Octopuses to Avoid The blue-ringed octopus carries venom with a powerful nerve toxin for which there is no antidote. It's a very dangerous animal to keep, even if you think you've taken every precaution. There are much better octopuses for the home aquarist, and this species should only be kept by a public aquarium.