Hello all,
Just wanted to give you an update. Our new bimac (we named it "squirt" - yes, I know, not too original) has acclimated quite well thus far. I have been feeding it (by hand) small clams. One time, after it grabbed the clam, it squirmed over to the glass and climbed up a few inches. I was then able to watch it (from the underside) work it's way into the clam--quite interesting. I've gotten plenty of video (MiniDV), but I still can't find my digital camera. I'll find it eventually.
The way it changes color to match the LR is most amazing to me. I pointed to which rock the bimac was on, and my wife still couldn't find the little guy until I pointed him out. BTW, I was talking with the local ceph "expert" today (he's the one who has bred vulgaris and attempted to breed the European cuttlefish), and he said that he has trained all of his bimacs to never leave the water. He said he never keeps a top on his tanks (he likes the added air-exchange it allows), and has never lost one to escape. Whether or not you agree with his method, here is what he wrote to me:
"...I trained mine to not leave the tank. They are curious and will explore. I maintaned mine with closed top and some with open top aquaria. I trained them in the following manner. First get them to eat from your hand. This is pretty simple as they will recognize your hand and the immediate introduction of food. Soon they will come right up to your hand to grab the food from you. It is about that simple. Next they will usually explore, and nibble on your hand during the feeding process. ALWAYS keep your hands clean- antibacterial soap and vigorously rinse prior to feeding. After you have gained their confidence pull them out of the tank during this time. They will get very mad at you because they hate it. They don't like being out of water. They will begin to recognize that outside the tank is a bad place. Repeat a few times. Leave the lid off and monitor your octopus. If he still tries to slide out he hasn't learned yet. I did this and kept mine without a top - no problem. You will begin to recognize that each octopus has its own personality. Use this to your advantage during your training. It sounds kind of funny to train an aquarium pet but don't forget they are about as smart as a dog. I would be interested in hearing about your experiences with your new pet as he grows older. I personally order mine a little larger as it is easier to feed. All of mine lived off from hand fed shrimp and other seafood. I started hand feeding the day after acclimation. At first I use a long tong to wave the fresh food by them. Eventually I just use my fingers. Most octopus will eat within 7 days of introduction and the majority within 2-3."
That does seem like a very mean thing to do, pulling it out of the water like that. That would sort of be like if a dog goes on your carpet you push its head under water and call it stupid! :x 
