Giant Pacific Octopus Spends Final Days Caring for Unfertilized Eggs in California Aquarium

Ghost, a giant Pacific octopus at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, has entered senescence, the final stage of her life, during which she will devote herself to caring for thousands of unfertilized eggs that will never hatch. This natural behavior involves the female octopus neglecting her own needs, such as eating, to protect and aerate the eggs for several months. The aquarium does not allow octopuses to mate to prevent early senescence and aggression between males and females, meaning Ghost's eggs are unfertilized. Ghost, originally from British Columbia, is estimated to be around 4 to 5 years old, which aligns with the average lifespan of giant Pacific octopuses. Her dedication has touched many visitors and online followers, who have expressed sadness and admiration for her maternal instincts despite the eggs being nonviable. Aquarium staff have noted the emotional impact of Ghost's condition on the community and plan to move her behind the scenes for her remaining days.