In California’s Aquarium of the Pacific, Ghost, a beloved giant Pacific octopus, has captivated fans since her arrival last summer. Now in her final days, Ghost is in senescence, caring for the eggs she recently laid, a phase that typically marks the end of her three to five-year lifespan.
Nate Jaros, the aquarium’s animal care vice-president, explained that Ghost has been moved to a special area for a peaceful and quiet environment during this critical stage. Most octopuses only survive one to three months after entering this phase, devoting themselves entirely to egg care without providing post-hatch maternal care.
Despite her solitary nature, Ghost has garnered a dedicated fan base, with some admirers even getting tattoos or planning to wear clothing featuring her image. Marine biology student Jay McMahon expressed the significance of connecting with Ghost, emphasizing the importance of learning more about these remarkable creatures.
Ghost’s eggs are unfertilized and will not hatch, contrasting the usual fate of octopus hatchlings. In the wild waters of British Columbia, where Ghost originates, giant Pacific octopuses maintain a solitary existence, only coming together to reproduce due to the high risk of aggression or harm between males and females.
Ghost’s growth from a three-pound cephalopod to a 22-kilogram creature has paralleled her increasing popularity. The Aquarium of the Pacific expressed their deep attachment to Ghost, stating that she has left an indelible mark on their hearts.
As Ghost nears the end of her life, fans and caretakers alike reflect on the joy she has brought and the lessons she has taught about the extraordinary world of octopuses.