Octopuses
Octopuses
Octopuses (pronounced /ˈɒktəpʊsɪz/) are a type of marine animal known for their eight arms, soft bodies, and intelligence. They belong to the order Octopoda, which is part of the larger class Cephalopoda that also includes squids, cuttlefish, and nautiloids.
Etymology
The word "octopus" comes from the Greek word "oktṓpous," which means "eight-footed." The plural form "octopuses" follows the standard English rules of pluralization.
Anatomy
Octopuses have a complex anatomy, with their most notable features being their eight arms lined with suckers. They also have a beak, with the mouth at the center point of the arms. Octopuses have three hearts, with two pumping blood to the gills and one pumping it to the rest of the body. They also have blue blood due to the presence of Hemocyanin, a copper-rich protein.
Behavior
Octopuses are known for their intelligence and have been observed using tools. They are also masters of camouflage and can change the color and texture of their skin to blend in with their surroundings. Most species of octopuses are solitary animals with short life spans.
Related Terms
- Cephalopod: A member of the molluscan class Cephalopoda, which includes octopuses, squids, cuttlefish, and nautiloids.
- Beak (cephalopod): The hard, sharp structure found in octopuses and other cephalopods, used to kill and tear prey.
- Camouflage: The use of any combination of materials, coloration, or illumination for concealment by making animals or objects hard to see.
- Hemocyanin: The oxygen-carrying molecule in the blood of many mollusks and arthropods, which gives their blood a blue color.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Octopuses
- Wikipedia's article - Octopuses
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