Flapjacks, Anyone?

During Dive 09 of the 2023 Shakedown EXPRESS West Coast Exploration expedition, at a depth of 814 meters (2,671 feet), we were treated to sightings of not one flapjack octopus (Opisthoteuthis californiana) but TWO on the seafloor. These octopods are commonly referred to as the flapjack octopus – from this video, the name seems appropriate! In the close-up video of the octopus, you’ll see white spots running along the arms and up unto the head – while the actual function of these is unknown, it is suspected that they may gather additional light, allowing the animal to detect shadows and such using its eyes. Learn more about the expedition: Video courtesy of NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2023 Shakedown EXPRESS West Coast Exploration.