From deep in the TONMO archives, here are the Letters to the Editor feature for the year 2000, which pre-dated our forums:
12/06/00
Hello JA!
First I should point out that I'm not a doctor, nor am I even an expert on octopus or cephalopods. I am, however, someone who enjoys maintaining this web site for people like me who find these creatures fascinating, and are happy to read something new about them on a weekly basis.
Second, I apologize for the translation above (and below), it's quite crude. But I believe I understand your question and perhaps can give you at least some information.
As far as I can tell, it seems that there are two marine biologists (S. Abollo and E. Pascual) who focus on parasites in cepholopods, and have conducted many studies. Unfortunately, I can't find these studies on the Internet, but I can at least give you information on the journal you should be looking out for:
JT The journal of parasitology.
DA JUN 01 1999 v 85 n 3
PG 508
AU Gestal, C.
AU Abollo, E.
AU Pascual, S.
TI Larval Nematodes (Spiruroidea: Cystidacolidae) in Octopus vulgarus (Mollusca: Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) from the Northeastern Atlantic Ocean.
There are other publications and articles written by Abollo and Pascual, but I believe the one above would be most pertinent to your research. Perhaps at your school or University you can find access to this publication (The Journal of Parasitology).
I hope this is a little helpful. You might also want to visit The Cephalopod Page hosted by a true doctor, Dr. James Wood. His site is great and if you can get to him, you'll find that he himself is very helpful as well.
Good luck!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
VERY LOOSE AUTOMATED TRANSLATION:
Hola Ja! Primero debo precisar que no soy doctor, ni es yo incluso un experto en el pulpo o los cefal�podos. Soy, sin embargo, alguien que goza el mantener de este Web site para la gente como m� que encuentra a estas criaturas el fascinar, y es feliz leer algo nuevo sobre ellas en una base semanal. En segundo lugar, me disculpo por la traducci�n arriba (y abajo), �l soy absolutamente crudo. Pero creo entiendo que su pregunta y quiz�s puede dar le por lo menos a una cierta informaci�n. Por lo que puedo decir, se parece que hay dos bi�logos marinas (S. Abollo y E. Pascual) que se centra en par�sitos en cepholopods, y ha conducido muchos estudios. Desafortunadamente, no puedo encontrar estos estudios en el Internet, sino que puedo por lo menos darle la informaci�n sobre el diario que usted debe mirar hacia fuera para: Jt el diario de la parasitolog�a. AU Gestal, C. AU Abollo, E. AU Pascual, nematodos de S. TI Larval (Spiruroidea de la PAGINACI�N 508 de DA DE JUNIO 01 1999 el v 85 de n 3: Cystidacolidae) en el vulgarus del pulpo (moluscos: Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) del Oc�ano Atl�ntico del noreste. Hay otras publicaciones y art�culos escritos por Abollo y Pascual, pero creo que el arriba ser�a el m�s pertinente a su investigaci�n. Quiz�s en su escuela o universidad usted puede encontrar el acceso a esta publicaci�n (el diario de la parasitolog�a). Espero que esto sea un poco provechoso. Usted puede ser que tambi�n desee visitar la paginaci�n del cefal�podo recibida por un doctor verdadero, el Dr. James Wood. Su sitio es grande y si usted puede conseguirle, usted encontrar� que �l s� mismo es muy provechoso tambi�n. Buena suerte!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected][/i]
11/29/00
Love it! Thanks for the tip.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/21/00
Hello JP,
There are over 150 species of octopus. There are all KINDS of "octopus experts," a few of which can be found on the Links page of TONMO.com. Check it out, I think it's a great place to start.
With regard to experiments, there are a few very interested anecdotes in Richard Ellis' Monsters of the Sea. I highly recommend it. Great reading!
Earlier this year (as referenced in TONMO.com's News Archive) there was one good story from the Reuters news wire that told of an experiment with an octopus and a jam jar. Basically, scientists put a crab inside a jam jar and placed it in a tank occupied by a hungry octopus. At first, it took the octopus 21 minutes to figure out how to get to the crab. But after a while, it began to learn how to unscrew the top of the jar, and eventually could do it in under one minute! But when scientists stopped the experiment for one or two days and then returned the jar to the tank, the octopus was as ignorant about the solution as it was before all this started. So, the experiment taught us that octopuses have a functioning short-term memory, but little or no long-term memory.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/19/00
The most responsible thing for me to do is to point you directly to an article found on Dr. James Woods' Cephalopod Page titled Sources of Live Cephalopods. Here you will find all the information you need for research and decision-making on buying an octopus for your son. Near the bottom of the page you'll find some helpful contact information. Good luck with your search -- please let me know what you decide. Your son is a lucky guy!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/16/00
Are you from Austrailia? That's where you're most likely to find the blue-ringed octopus. There are actually two species -- [/I]Hapalochlaena lunulata grows up to 20cm, while Hapalochlaena maculosa is the smaller and more common version. They are both extremely poisonous -- deadly so. The ones you're observing do sound like they're smaller than either of the full-grown blue-ringed octopuses, but I can't give a definitive answer without more information to conduct further research with.
Scientists have indicated that octopuses in general turn red when they are in a combatative or emergency-type mode. Perhaps these turned red and swam away when they sensed your presence? Imagine being an octopus and seeing for the first time a human being! Objectively speaking, I wonder which creature is the more startling to the other. I'd say that both humans and cephalopods make an equally significant sensory impact in terms of the reaction to their physical presence when observed by other species.
ANYhow. Back to your question -- I can't say for sure what you're looking at. But I can tell you that if there's the slightest chance that these creatures ARE the blue-ringed octopus, by all means stay away!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/11/00
It is my understanding that people who sell octopus will commonly identify the specimen as an Octopus vulgaris by default, simply because that is the most common species. In truth there are more than 150 species, and it is not unheard of for a buyer to get misinformation about the specifics of his/her new octopus unless the seller is very knowledgeable. I'm not saying that you've necessarily been misinformed -- of course I have no way of knowing. What makes you think your octopus is NOT an O. vulgaris?
To answer your question -- the best resource for marine biologists and true cephalopod hobbyists is Dr. James Woods' Cephalopod Page. I've exchanged emails with him a few times; I'm sure he'll be happy to help if he finds the time. Certainly you should be able to find some helpful information on his site -- be sure to read his FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/2/00
Yes, I do hope to include a gallery on this site at some point. I need to take some time to find some great exclusive photos and get permission to use them on my site. I take some pride in the fact that all content on this site is either created by myself or is used by permission -- I'd like to add some more outside content, but again, securing permission takes time (and alas, sometimes money). I took my own pictures of Octopus hongkongensis at the New England Aquarium earlier this year, but they came out a bit fuzzy. I may scan one or two anyhow.
I do eat squid and calamari when I can. I haven't had octopus in recent memory. I'll tell you what -- I know of a good Japanese restaurant not far from where I work. In the next week or two I'll venture out and get some octopus sushi, and will let you know how I liked it.
Some folks have asked me if I've had any problems with my audience because I praise the octopus as one of God's creatures but also praise them as food at the same time. I don't believe there's a conflict of interest there. It all depends on your perspective. If you ARE thrown off when I talk about eating these animals, please don't read the last passage in this issue of TONMO.com!
Thanks a lot for your note, CW!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
10/23/00
Cool! As you may know, Octopus macropus is commonly known as "the long-armed octopus". They can grow to be up to 30 inches in length. They are typically red, with white spots, and tend to favor secluded, rocky environments to live and lay their eggs. They are night hunters, and my research indicates that they can be found in the Great Barrier Reef off Australia, and also off of Malta in the Mediterranean.
I did some poking around on one of the best cephalopod resources on the Internet -- Dr. James Wood's CephBase
There you will find this spectacular picture of your Octopus macropus. You can also check out this list of prey which essentially includes the critters you've mentioned.
If you're interested in more photos, here's another -- though I suppose you can just go over to your tank if you want to see what you've got. But if you really can't get enough, this photo of Octopus macropus is hard to beat.
You got yourself a beauty of an octopus! I hope this was helpful. Thanks for writing...
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
10/15/00
Since there are about 150 species of octopus, it would be hard to give one answer to this question. But that doesn't scare me! I'd say it's safe to make the general statement that they typically live for about a year or two. Octopuses do tend to live longer in colder temperatures, which to me, makes sense. For example, I myself have observed that milk tastes better after one week when I put it back in the fridge rather than leaving it on the counter. I'm sure there's a correlation there.
But I digress. The larger octopuses (such as Octopus dolflieni and Octopus hongkongensis) can live up to 5 years of age -- but that's about as good as it gets. Surprising, really, when considering what complex animals they are.
And here's an interesting fact for the road -- goats and octopuses both have rectangular pupils.
Thanks for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
10/12/00
Hello MS,
I don't know why an octopus has three hearts any more than I know why a cow has four stomachs. But I can point you to a Web page that provides some facts about octopus hearts, and provides a picture: just click here
If you look closely at the yellowish organs in the photograph provided, you'll see that the octopus does indeed have one large systemic heart located in the center of its mantle, and also has two supporting bronchial hearts above and behind the eyes. The bronchial hearts are connected to the gills by capillaries, which oxygenate the blood before it's sucked into the systemic heart for pumping through the body.
Their closed, complex circulatory system allows them to be among the stealthiest, nimble and sensory-alert creatures on the planet. Imagine how strong, fast and alert you'd be if you had three hearts pumping fresh, oxygenated blood to all parts of your body. You'd be like a super-hero! But you'd probably have to breath VERY heavily to feed all that oxygen through your body. That would likely result in bad breath. Best to leave the three-heart circulatory system to the octopuses.
Also be sure to let Brandon know that if an octopus loses an arm, it just grows one back. Weird stuff.
Thanks for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
9/16/00
Hello DB,
In the real cephalopod world, argonauts are also known as the "paper nautilus" because they inhabit a paper-thin shell (that later acts as an egg case). Their scientific name is Argonauta argo and they do have eight tentacles. You can see an image of the paper nautilus here, and another image can be seen here. Unfortunately there is not much detailed information about this animal on the Web, but the best photo and information can be found here, within Dr. James Wood's Cephalopod Page. Finally, I think you'll find some interesting info at the bottom of this page with regard to the paper nautilus.
Regarding Jason and the Argonauts, have a look at this fun site that walks you through the entire legend with accompanying cartoon illustrations. As you've noted, his mighty crew were called the "Argonauts," but I've yet to come across any information that says the crew ran into these creatures. I hope this helps a bit -- if anyone has further info to lend, as always, please write.
Thanks!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
8/7/00
Hello SP,
Thanks! This is brilliant. Looks like I missed a great time.
Cheers, indeed!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/26/00
This is outrageous. I cannot believe your arrogance in thinking that I would display your filthy picture on my site. See you Saturday for poker...
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/24/00
The Mimic Octopus is a fine suspect for the behavior described by WdV in his letter. They are, after all, masters of mimicry -- they can take the convincing form of a giant crab, brittle fish, flounder, jelly fish and various other creatures of the sea. What fun it must be to have such an ability!
I hope to provide a more detailed report on the Mimic Octopus and the known species that are believed to be associated with them. Since they've been discovered relatively recently, there's some conflicting information about them and facts are hard to come by. Still, I intend to share a report here on TONMO.com about Mimic Octopuses sometime in the coming weeks.
Thanks again for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/17/00
There are about 150 varieties of octopus, with the most common species being Octopus vulgaris. In recent years, this octopus has been observed as being much more thoughtful and creative than was once thought. I can certainly confirm from my reading and research (including Discovery Channel programming!) that they do have the ability to contort their bodies into remarkable shapes and forms. When it comes to evading predators, they have a full itinerary of tricks and illusions to cloak themselves or, depending on their choice of action, scare the enemy away.
Their ability to stretch their bodies can never be underestimated -- some anecdotal references are made in Richard Ellis' book titled "Monsters of the Sea." There's one about the fisherman who caught an octopus and put it in a cigar box. He closed the box and tied it shut with rope while he continued his fishing. Moments later when he turned to check on his catch, he found the octopus standing beside still-closed box, peering at him. He put the octopus back in the box and watched it to observe what would happen next. It had stretched the tips of one of its tentacles to become paper-thin and slipped it through the crease of the box, established a grip, and pulled the rest of its body out by flattening itself entirely.
An octopus floating to the top of the ocean and floating down again, perhaps just "for fun," is completely plausible. While we don't know everything about the motivations of octopuses in their natural habitat, we have observed them engaging in a variety of acts with purpose. Certainly there's much more for us to learn.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
12/06/00
Hello JA!
First I should point out that I'm not a doctor, nor am I even an expert on octopus or cephalopods. I am, however, someone who enjoys maintaining this web site for people like me who find these creatures fascinating, and are happy to read something new about them on a weekly basis.
Second, I apologize for the translation above (and below), it's quite crude. But I believe I understand your question and perhaps can give you at least some information.
As far as I can tell, it seems that there are two marine biologists (S. Abollo and E. Pascual) who focus on parasites in cepholopods, and have conducted many studies. Unfortunately, I can't find these studies on the Internet, but I can at least give you information on the journal you should be looking out for:
JT The journal of parasitology.
DA JUN 01 1999 v 85 n 3
PG 508
AU Gestal, C.
AU Abollo, E.
AU Pascual, S.
TI Larval Nematodes (Spiruroidea: Cystidacolidae) in Octopus vulgarus (Mollusca: Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) from the Northeastern Atlantic Ocean.
There are other publications and articles written by Abollo and Pascual, but I believe the one above would be most pertinent to your research. Perhaps at your school or University you can find access to this publication (The Journal of Parasitology).
I hope this is a little helpful. You might also want to visit The Cephalopod Page hosted by a true doctor, Dr. James Wood. His site is great and if you can get to him, you'll find that he himself is very helpful as well.
Good luck!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
VERY LOOSE AUTOMATED TRANSLATION:
Hola Ja! Primero debo precisar que no soy doctor, ni es yo incluso un experto en el pulpo o los cefal�podos. Soy, sin embargo, alguien que goza el mantener de este Web site para la gente como m� que encuentra a estas criaturas el fascinar, y es feliz leer algo nuevo sobre ellas en una base semanal. En segundo lugar, me disculpo por la traducci�n arriba (y abajo), �l soy absolutamente crudo. Pero creo entiendo que su pregunta y quiz�s puede dar le por lo menos a una cierta informaci�n. Por lo que puedo decir, se parece que hay dos bi�logos marinas (S. Abollo y E. Pascual) que se centra en par�sitos en cepholopods, y ha conducido muchos estudios. Desafortunadamente, no puedo encontrar estos estudios en el Internet, sino que puedo por lo menos darle la informaci�n sobre el diario que usted debe mirar hacia fuera para: Jt el diario de la parasitolog�a. AU Gestal, C. AU Abollo, E. AU Pascual, nematodos de S. TI Larval (Spiruroidea de la PAGINACI�N 508 de DA DE JUNIO 01 1999 el v 85 de n 3: Cystidacolidae) en el vulgarus del pulpo (moluscos: Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) del Oc�ano Atl�ntico del noreste. Hay otras publicaciones y art�culos escritos por Abollo y Pascual, pero creo que el arriba ser�a el m�s pertinente a su investigaci�n. Quiz�s en su escuela o universidad usted puede encontrar el acceso a esta publicaci�n (el diario de la parasitolog�a). Espero que esto sea un poco provechoso. Usted puede ser que tambi�n desee visitar la paginaci�n del cefal�podo recibida por un doctor verdadero, el Dr. James Wood. Su sitio es grande y si usted puede conseguirle, usted encontrar� que �l s� mismo es muy provechoso tambi�n. Buena suerte!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected][/i]
11/29/00
Hey LB,
Love it! Thanks for the tip.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/21/00
Hello JP,
There are over 150 species of octopus. There are all KINDS of "octopus experts," a few of which can be found on the Links page of TONMO.com. Check it out, I think it's a great place to start.
With regard to experiments, there are a few very interested anecdotes in Richard Ellis' Monsters of the Sea. I highly recommend it. Great reading!
Earlier this year (as referenced in TONMO.com's News Archive) there was one good story from the Reuters news wire that told of an experiment with an octopus and a jam jar. Basically, scientists put a crab inside a jam jar and placed it in a tank occupied by a hungry octopus. At first, it took the octopus 21 minutes to figure out how to get to the crab. But after a while, it began to learn how to unscrew the top of the jar, and eventually could do it in under one minute! But when scientists stopped the experiment for one or two days and then returned the jar to the tank, the octopus was as ignorant about the solution as it was before all this started. So, the experiment taught us that octopuses have a functioning short-term memory, but little or no long-term memory.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/19/00
Hello AB,
The most responsible thing for me to do is to point you directly to an article found on Dr. James Woods' Cephalopod Page titled Sources of Live Cephalopods. Here you will find all the information you need for research and decision-making on buying an octopus for your son. Near the bottom of the page you'll find some helpful contact information. Good luck with your search -- please let me know what you decide. Your son is a lucky guy!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/16/00
Hi DETCCDUSER:
Are you from Austrailia? That's where you're most likely to find the blue-ringed octopus. There are actually two species -- [/I]Hapalochlaena lunulata grows up to 20cm, while Hapalochlaena maculosa is the smaller and more common version. They are both extremely poisonous -- deadly so. The ones you're observing do sound like they're smaller than either of the full-grown blue-ringed octopuses, but I can't give a definitive answer without more information to conduct further research with.
Scientists have indicated that octopuses in general turn red when they are in a combatative or emergency-type mode. Perhaps these turned red and swam away when they sensed your presence? Imagine being an octopus and seeing for the first time a human being! Objectively speaking, I wonder which creature is the more startling to the other. I'd say that both humans and cephalopods make an equally significant sensory impact in terms of the reaction to their physical presence when observed by other species.
ANYhow. Back to your question -- I can't say for sure what you're looking at. But I can tell you that if there's the slightest chance that these creatures ARE the blue-ringed octopus, by all means stay away!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/11/00
Hi Anne:
It is my understanding that people who sell octopus will commonly identify the specimen as an Octopus vulgaris by default, simply because that is the most common species. In truth there are more than 150 species, and it is not unheard of for a buyer to get misinformation about the specifics of his/her new octopus unless the seller is very knowledgeable. I'm not saying that you've necessarily been misinformed -- of course I have no way of knowing. What makes you think your octopus is NOT an O. vulgaris?
To answer your question -- the best resource for marine biologists and true cephalopod hobbyists is Dr. James Woods' Cephalopod Page. I've exchanged emails with him a few times; I'm sure he'll be happy to help if he finds the time. Certainly you should be able to find some helpful information on his site -- be sure to read his FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
11/2/00
Hello CW,
Yes, I do hope to include a gallery on this site at some point. I need to take some time to find some great exclusive photos and get permission to use them on my site. I take some pride in the fact that all content on this site is either created by myself or is used by permission -- I'd like to add some more outside content, but again, securing permission takes time (and alas, sometimes money). I took my own pictures of Octopus hongkongensis at the New England Aquarium earlier this year, but they came out a bit fuzzy. I may scan one or two anyhow.
I do eat squid and calamari when I can. I haven't had octopus in recent memory. I'll tell you what -- I know of a good Japanese restaurant not far from where I work. In the next week or two I'll venture out and get some octopus sushi, and will let you know how I liked it.
Some folks have asked me if I've had any problems with my audience because I praise the octopus as one of God's creatures but also praise them as food at the same time. I don't believe there's a conflict of interest there. It all depends on your perspective. If you ARE thrown off when I talk about eating these animals, please don't read the last passage in this issue of TONMO.com!
Thanks a lot for your note, CW!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
10/23/00
Hello CS,
Cool! As you may know, Octopus macropus is commonly known as "the long-armed octopus". They can grow to be up to 30 inches in length. They are typically red, with white spots, and tend to favor secluded, rocky environments to live and lay their eggs. They are night hunters, and my research indicates that they can be found in the Great Barrier Reef off Australia, and also off of Malta in the Mediterranean.
I did some poking around on one of the best cephalopod resources on the Internet -- Dr. James Wood's CephBase
There you will find this spectacular picture of your Octopus macropus. You can also check out this list of prey which essentially includes the critters you've mentioned.
If you're interested in more photos, here's another -- though I suppose you can just go over to your tank if you want to see what you've got. But if you really can't get enough, this photo of Octopus macropus is hard to beat.
You got yourself a beauty of an octopus! I hope this was helpful. Thanks for writing...
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster -- [email protected]
10/15/00
Hello LN,
Since there are about 150 species of octopus, it would be hard to give one answer to this question. But that doesn't scare me! I'd say it's safe to make the general statement that they typically live for about a year or two. Octopuses do tend to live longer in colder temperatures, which to me, makes sense. For example, I myself have observed that milk tastes better after one week when I put it back in the fridge rather than leaving it on the counter. I'm sure there's a correlation there.
But I digress. The larger octopuses (such as Octopus dolflieni and Octopus hongkongensis) can live up to 5 years of age -- but that's about as good as it gets. Surprising, really, when considering what complex animals they are.
And here's an interesting fact for the road -- goats and octopuses both have rectangular pupils.
Thanks for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
10/12/00
Hello MS,
I don't know why an octopus has three hearts any more than I know why a cow has four stomachs. But I can point you to a Web page that provides some facts about octopus hearts, and provides a picture: just click here
If you look closely at the yellowish organs in the photograph provided, you'll see that the octopus does indeed have one large systemic heart located in the center of its mantle, and also has two supporting bronchial hearts above and behind the eyes. The bronchial hearts are connected to the gills by capillaries, which oxygenate the blood before it's sucked into the systemic heart for pumping through the body.
Their closed, complex circulatory system allows them to be among the stealthiest, nimble and sensory-alert creatures on the planet. Imagine how strong, fast and alert you'd be if you had three hearts pumping fresh, oxygenated blood to all parts of your body. You'd be like a super-hero! But you'd probably have to breath VERY heavily to feed all that oxygen through your body. That would likely result in bad breath. Best to leave the three-heart circulatory system to the octopuses.
Also be sure to let Brandon know that if an octopus loses an arm, it just grows one back. Weird stuff.
Thanks for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
9/16/00
Hello DB,
In the real cephalopod world, argonauts are also known as the "paper nautilus" because they inhabit a paper-thin shell (that later acts as an egg case). Their scientific name is Argonauta argo and they do have eight tentacles. You can see an image of the paper nautilus here, and another image can be seen here. Unfortunately there is not much detailed information about this animal on the Web, but the best photo and information can be found here, within Dr. James Wood's Cephalopod Page. Finally, I think you'll find some interesting info at the bottom of this page with regard to the paper nautilus.
Regarding Jason and the Argonauts, have a look at this fun site that walks you through the entire legend with accompanying cartoon illustrations. As you've noted, his mighty crew were called the "Argonauts," but I've yet to come across any information that says the crew ran into these creatures. I hope this helps a bit -- if anyone has further info to lend, as always, please write.
Thanks!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster
8/7/00
Hello SP,
Thanks! This is brilliant. Looks like I missed a great time.
Cheers, indeed!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/26/00
Hello MH,Mr. Morelli,
Whilst perusing through tonmo.com I came to the conclusion that the site
needs some visual stimulation. So I have created an original piece of art
for you to place on tonmo.com!
I expect to see it placed prominently on the site by tomorrow, as I'm sure
you'll agree it's simply brilliant. You can almost smell the briney depths
as you gaze upon this most majestic beast in its stunningly vivid
environment -- by now you are most certainly engulfed in a trance as you
ponder the utter impossibility of the apparatus housing the tentacles. No
detail was overlooked in the artist's rendering of eyes and mouth, I'm
certain you'll be utterly amazed at their lifelike brilliance! I'm sure
you're asking "how can it be?" Breathtaking, I know! The longer you gaze,
the more questions the viewer is bound to ask -- why is it just off center
to the left? Is that the lost civilization of Atlantis off in the distance?
I'm sure you're asking -- how do I go about sending royalty checks? My
standard fee for such services is $62,000 per hour, but I will rescind the
fee in this case...
Again Mr. Morelli, I can not begin to express how fortunate you are that I
have graciously provided this service to you. You may heap praise upon me
however you see fit on tonmo.com.
Good day.
-- MH
This is outrageous. I cannot believe your arrogance in thinking that I would display your filthy picture on my site. See you Saturday for poker...
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/24/00
Thanks JB!
The Mimic Octopus is a fine suspect for the behavior described by WdV in his letter. They are, after all, masters of mimicry -- they can take the convincing form of a giant crab, brittle fish, flounder, jelly fish and various other creatures of the sea. What fun it must be to have such an ability!
I hope to provide a more detailed report on the Mimic Octopus and the known species that are believed to be associated with them. Since they've been discovered relatively recently, there's some conflicting information about them and facts are hard to come by. Still, I intend to share a report here on TONMO.com about Mimic Octopuses sometime in the coming weeks.
Thanks again for writing!
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
6/17/00
Hello WdV,
There are about 150 varieties of octopus, with the most common species being Octopus vulgaris. In recent years, this octopus has been observed as being much more thoughtful and creative than was once thought. I can certainly confirm from my reading and research (including Discovery Channel programming!) that they do have the ability to contort their bodies into remarkable shapes and forms. When it comes to evading predators, they have a full itinerary of tricks and illusions to cloak themselves or, depending on their choice of action, scare the enemy away.
Their ability to stretch their bodies can never be underestimated -- some anecdotal references are made in Richard Ellis' book titled "Monsters of the Sea." There's one about the fisherman who caught an octopus and put it in a cigar box. He closed the box and tied it shut with rope while he continued his fishing. Moments later when he turned to check on his catch, he found the octopus standing beside still-closed box, peering at him. He put the octopus back in the box and watched it to observe what would happen next. It had stretched the tips of one of its tentacles to become paper-thin and slipped it through the crease of the box, established a grip, and pulled the rest of its body out by flattening itself entirely.
An octopus floating to the top of the ocean and floating down again, perhaps just "for fun," is completely plausible. While we don't know everything about the motivations of octopuses in their natural habitat, we have observed them engaging in a variety of acts with purpose. Certainly there's much more for us to learn.
-- Tony Morelli, TONMO.com Webmaster - [email protected]
