Blue Ring Octopus

Hapalochlaena cf. lunulata is a small octopus found in shallow tropical waters of the Indo West Pacific. It is likely a complex of numerous species. It differs from the closely related Hapalochlaena maculosa by its larger iridescent blue rings and more northern distribution.

Morphology
This species has a tan to orange base colour with large iridescent blue rings which can be up to approximately 12mm in diameter, present on the dorsal mantle, arm crown and arms. The animal can reach 12cm in length with up to a 15cm arm span.

Evolution
The genus Hapalochlaena contains 4 described species (according to WoRMS) but many undescribed species are known.

Behaviour
This species often found foraging at night on mud, sand and rubble areas (including intertidal reef flats. It feeds on fish and crustaceans by paralysing them with injected saliva containing a powerful toxin.

Method of reproduction
Sexual; female broods eggs until hatching

Habitat
Marine
Shallow waters often found on intertidal reef flats

Distribution
Indo-west Pacific. In Australia, Reid (2016) has it from Shark Bay in WA across to Hervey Bay in QLD.