What do ya suggest we call this behavior?
📸: Erick.Higuera/IG The female argonaut octopus shown here is demonstrating impressive social behavior that you’ve most likely never seen before…
 👀 Picture this: a bunch of fearless octo-mothers, who have been working their whole lives to build the perfect egg casing by secreting calcite out of their arms, banding together to protect one another. 
That’s what we think these female argonauts are doing. Instead of braving the ocean solo, they lock arms and bring the most squishy & exposed parts of their bodies together. 
🗣️ Argonaut to Argonaut: “Do you want to form an alliance with me?” “Absolutely I do.”

Each female puts herself at risk to safeguard the eggs of her fellow sisters. It’s difficult to watch— but believe it or not, there is NO research on this behavior. 
 Not only is this behavior admirable, but it also suggests that octopuses are capable of complex social behavior that is not yet fully understood. 
The sense of unity and cooperation in female argonauts’ actions is truly inspiring.
 These behaviors challenge the common belief that octopuses are solitary animals and show a level of intelligence that is still being researched. 

If you read this far, comment “argo” and we’ll send you our top blog posts on this species so you can learn even more about em! (How she makes the shell, about the pea sized non-shelled male, and how they ride jellies around) 

OK ok ok— if you’re still here— This video leaves us with a bunch of questions (maybe you can help?) … 1. Are the actions of argonaut mothers working together to safeguard their young an example of emotional intelligence? (the ability to understand and respond to the emotions of others) or is it something else entirely? 

2. With a lifespan of ~1 year— is this simply an instinct or do they recognize each others vulnerabilities? 🏷️ #science #nature #biology #reef #underwater #diving #sea #biodiversity #ocean #animals #fish #octopus #natgeo #nationalgeographic #natgeoyourshot #scuba #scubadiving #myoctopusteacher #love #wildlife