(full paper is archived in the Miller Library)
Title: A characterization of Octopus rubescens' habitat
and abundance in a Central California kelp forest
Student Author(s): Carner, Shawn L.
Faculty Advisor(s): Pearse, John
Pages: 14
Location: Senior Thesis UC Santa Cruz
1996
Keywords: HMLR
Abstract: Octopus rubescens is a cryptic inhabitant of
the kelp forest within Hopkins Marine Life Refuge. Field research on
the habitat and community structure is characterized for this
species. A density of 5.1 octopuses per 1000 sq meters was observed.
Habitat substrate, cover and characteristics are described.
Octopus rubescens was observed in all habitat types within the
kelp forest, but not in equal proportions. The octopus was most often
observed in rocky substrate areas covered with foliose red algae.
The community structure is compsoed of multiple predation, prey, and
competitive interactions. Alerting and threat behaviors are
described by observations of activity and color change.