Octopodiformes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Octopodiformes |
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| Octopus vulgaris | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Cephalopoda |
| (unranked): | Neocoleoidea |
| Superorder: | Octopodiformes Berthold & Engeser, 1987 |
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Octopodiformes is a special group of ocean animals called cephalopods. These amazing creatures have eight arms and do not have any bones inside their bodies. The most famous members of this group are octopuses and the mysterious Vampire squid.
Contents
What Are Octopodiformes?
Octopodiformes are part of a larger family of animals called cephalopods. This group includes squids, cuttlefish, and nautiluses. What makes Octopodiformes special is their eight arms. Unlike some other cephalopods, they do not have a hard shell or a backbone.
Octopus and Vampire Squid
The two main types of Octopodiformes are octopuses and vampire squids. Octopuses are well-known for their intelligence. They can change color and squeeze into tiny spaces. Vampire squids are less common. They live in the deep ocean. Both are fascinating creatures of the sea.
Amazing Cephalopods
Cephalopods are a very old group of animals. They have been around for millions of years. The word "cephalopod" means "head-foot." This is because their arms are attached directly to their heads. They are known for being very smart. Many can solve puzzles and use tools.
Where Do They Live?
Octopodiformes live all over the world's oceans. You can find them in warm tropical waters. They also live in the cold depths of the polar seas. Some octopuses live close to the shore. They hide in rocks and coral reefs. Vampire squids prefer the very deep parts of the ocean. They live where there is very little light.
What Do They Eat?
Most Octopodiformes are hunters. They eat other small sea animals. Octopuses often eat crabs, lobsters, and small fish. They use their strong arms to catch their prey. Then they use a beak-like mouth to eat. Vampire squids eat tiny bits of dead material. This material floats down from the surface. They use special sticky filaments to collect their food.
How Do They Move?
Octopodiformes move in a unique way. They use something called jet propulsion. They suck water into a special part of their body. Then they quickly push it out through a tube. This pushes them backward through the water. They can also crawl along the ocean floor. They use their strong arms and suction cups for this.
Cool Facts About Octopodiformes
- Octopuses have three hearts! Two hearts pump blood through their gills. The third heart pumps blood to the rest of their body.
- They have blue blood. This is because their blood uses copper. Most animals use iron in their blood.
- Octopuses are masters of disguise. They can change their skin color and texture. This helps them blend in with their surroundings. They do this to hide from predators or to sneak up on prey.
- Vampire squids can glow in the dark. They use special light-producing organs. This helps them communicate in the deep, dark ocean.
See also
In Spanish: Octopodiformes para niños
