Octopuses

The octopus is a type of mollusk found in the oceans. The characteristics of the group Mollusca are reviewed. The basic body plan of the octopus is illustrated. An octopus has three hearts, blue blood, and a tiny piece of shell inside its body. It has eight arms, a main brain, and also a mini-brain in each arm. Most octopuses live on the ocean floor and move by walking with their arms. Swimming is done by sucking water into the body and squirting it out behind, pushing the octopus forward. Octopuses use their arms and the suckers on them to attach themselves to objects, explore their world, and catch food. They eat clams, crabs, snails, and fish, and can squirt out black ink to cloud the water around them and help them escape from predators. Octopuses have soft squishy bodies that can fit into small spaces, and they can quickly change their skin color and patterning to blend in with their surroundings. They are very smart and can find their way through mazes, open jars, use tools, and solve problems. We are still learning more about octopuses and what they can do. A pronunciation guide of scientific terms is included. 24 pages filled with engaging, colorful illustrations. Reading Level 1-3, Interest Level 2-5. Word count 316, Lexile measure 590L.