The visually arresting and often misunderstood
octopus has long captured popular imagination. With an
alien appearance and an uncanny intellect, this
exceptional sea creature has inspired fear in famous
lore and legends - from the giant octopus attack in
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea to Ursula the sea witch in
The Little Mermaid. Yet its true nature is more wondrous
still. After decades of research, the authors reveal a
sensitive, curious, and playful animal with remarkable
intelligence, an ability to defend itself with
camouflage and jet propulsion, an intricate nervous
system, and advanced problem-solving abilities. In this
beautifully photographed book, three leading marine
biologists bring readers face to face with these
amazingly complex animals that have fascinated
scientists for decades. From the molluscan ancestry of
today's octopus to its ingenious anatomy, amazing mating
and predatory behaviors, and other-worldly relatives,
the authors take readers through the astounding life
cycle, uncovering the details of distinctive octopus
personalities.With personal narratives, underwater
research, stunning closeup photography, and thoughtful
guidance for keeping octopuses in captivity, ''Octopus''
is the first comprehensive natural history of this smart
denizen of the sea. |
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