New species of blue octopus discovered 5,900 feet underwater
A new species of blue octopus has been discovered 5,900 feet underwater near the Galapagos Islands. Named Microeledone galapagensis, this tiny octopus is notable for its unique coloration and physical characteristics. The discovery was made by scientists from the Charles Darwin Foundation, who utilized advanced imaging techniques to study the specimen without dissection.
- ▪The new octopus species was found at a depth of 5,900 feet near the Galapagos Islands.
- ▪Microeledone galapagensis is distinguished by its light blue back and deep purple underside.
- ▪The octopus is part of the Megaleledonidae family, which typically includes larger species.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
World Strange new species of blue octopus discovered by scientists 5,900 feet underwater: "It's beautiful" May 26, 2026 / 6:17 AM EDT / CBS/AFP Add CBS News on Google On the ocean floor near the Galapagos Islands, a submersible controlled by scientists came across a mysterious octopus as blue as the ocean that could "could curl up in the palm of your hand.""He's tiny! It's blue!" one excited scientist was recorded as saying when she first caught sight of the cerulean cephalopod on footage transmitted from the sub.The team from the Charles Darwin Foundation had just discovered a new species of octopus about 5,900 feet below the water's surface, according to research published on Monday."Right away, I knew it was something really special," said octopus expert Janet Voight, who was asked to…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at CBS News — Top.