Revision of the Octopus horridus species-group, including erection of a new subgenus and description of two member species from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Abstract

The tropical Indo-West Pacific region contains a distinctive group of small to moderate-sized octopuses referred to in the past as the Octopus horridus species-group. Member species are found primarily on intertidal reef flats. They possess small bodies, long arms and complex skin sculpture and body patterns enabling excellent camouflage. When attacked, these octopuses are capable of autotomising their arms at the base: the writhing severed arm acting as a decoy to predators and aiding escape. Lost arms regenerate within 2-3 months. Attributes of this group of octopuses are described and the subgenus Abdopus, subgen. nov. is here coined to define this group. Historically, many members of thi..