Diving With the Giant Pacific Octopus
In Diving With the Giant Pacific Octopus, ecologist David Scheel dives into Alaska’s waters to find the giant Pacific octopus, the largest octopus species in the world. Using clues like discarded crab shells, he locates a massive octopus that reaches out curiously and touches David’s arms. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Natural World: The Octopus in My House, a remarkable series about a professor and the extraordinary relationship he develops with an octopus when he invites it to live in his home.
Lesson Express
Q: What can the pile of crab shells outside the octopus's den tell researchers about its behavior?
A: The pile of crab shells indicates that the octopus feeds on crabs, and it discards the empty shells outside its den. This behavior helps scientists locate the octopus and understand its eating habits.
Q: How does the size of the giant Pacific octopus compare with the size of the diver, and what does this suggest about its role in the ocean ecosystem?
A: The giant Pacific octopus can be as large as the diver, making it one of the largest octopus species. Its size suggests that it is a powerful predator in its environment, capable of hunting and defending itself in the deep ocean.
Q: What might the diver learn about octopus intelligence by observing its interaction with him underwater?
A: By observing the octopus’s behavior, such as how it reaches out and touches the diver, the diver might learn that octopuses are highly curious and have a level of awareness and intelligence that allows them to explore and interact with their environment in sophisticated ways.
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