Octopus surge spreads up UK coast as far as Scotland, study finds
Summary
A large increase in octopus numbers off the UK coast is spreading from southwest England to Scotland and Wales, changing the marine environment and fishing industry. The rise is linked to warmer seas, which help the common octopus grow in number.Key Facts
- Record numbers of common octopuses were first seen in 2025 off Devon and Cornwall.
- Octopus sightings have spread to Wales, Dorset, East Sussex, and Scotland.
- Warmer sea temperatures from mild winters and warm springs help octopuses breed more.
- The octopus catch rose by 7,700% in 2025, with a record 100 tonnes sold in one day at Brixham market.
- Octopuses eat crabs and lobsters, causing trouble for some fishers but benefiting others who catch octopus.
- The increasing octopus population affects the marine ecosystem by preying on shellfish and feeding seals, eels, and rare dolphins.
- Hundreds of divers and snorkelers have helped scientists study the growing octopus numbers.
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