A mother’s love transcends species. From those on land, to those that soar in the sky, and even those that swim beneath the surface of our oceans, a mother’s love knows no bounds. Today, we highlight a species where we think mothers deserve more of a spotlight. Known locally as sea cat and more commonly as the Caribbean Reef Octopus (Octopus briareus), this is a delicacy commonly enjoyed in Barbados - but what are the qualities that make them such amazing mothers?
Many of us do not see the hard work our mothers put into raising us, and octopuses take this to the next level. They lay up to thousands of eggs at once, incubating their young over a period of months to years.
During this time, they do what all mothers do: fuss over their children. These mothers spend their time cleaning the eggs to prevent bacteria or algae build up, or protecting them from predators. However, they do not eat, growing weaker and weaker over time. This is caused by particular hormones which are released that boost maternal behaviors and discourage them from foraging and eating. Some octopuses are known to be reduced to half their original weight by the time their young have hatched. Once this happens, they pass away, with their final act being in service of their young.
While young octopuses do not get the chance to thank their mothers for all that they have done, many of us are fortunate to have this opportunity.
The Barbados Fisheries Division would like to take this time to wish everyone a Happy Mother’s Day, with special wishes going out to the hardworking and caring fisherwomen, vendors, processors, boat agents, boat owners, data collectors, caretakers and many more service providers who keep the engine of the fishing industry chugging along.
Cover photo credit: Kat Zhou