We see less texture the longer they live in an aquarium (all species) so I would attribute it to their natural need to blend into the rock work. IMO, after they are confident with their environment they don't seem to feel the need to disappear. Unfortunately, determining even the most common of color changes is not something scientific observers will confidently name (and is frequently the topic of discussed frustration). We know that the skunk stripe and darkening around the eyes is displayed by all octos we keep but a definitive emotion (or even if color/texture is emotion specific) is not official. IMO, these are two signs of being slightly annoyed where texture seems to be a comfort level with being seen.
None of you great photos gives me any hints to suggest sex. It is too soon to second guess collecting shells for a den. To call it a female about to brood activity, it would have to occur as a behavior change (this does not mean that is not what you are seeing but we don't know if it is a behavior change or just a den making at this point).
None of you great photos gives me any hints to suggest sex. It is too soon to second guess collecting shells for a den. To call it a female about to brood activity, it would have to occur as a behavior change (this does not mean that is not what you are seeing but we don't know if it is a behavior change or just a den making at this point).