The Ocean Photographer of the Year - 2nd place - Blanket Octopus

[Donkees]

A blanket octopus displays its beautiful colours and textures. "I was very sick during this dive," says photographer Katherine Lu. "I spent a lot of time trying to equalise near the surface. When my guide frantically signalled for me to come down I hesitated for moment, but went for it, pushing myself down. Luckily my ears equalised and there before my eyes was this beautiful blanket octopus. We swam alongside her and then, like magic, she opened up her blanket to show herself in all her glory."

https://oceanographicmagazine.com/winners-gallery/?winners_year=2022&winners_category=the-ocean

[Old Okie]

1. Blanket Octopus

Beautiful picture, thanks for sharing it with us.

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

2. Beautiful!

[Donkees]

3. Video: Blanket octopus

A close up of the Blanket Octopus during a blackwater dive with The Three P diving club , Romblon Island, Philippines.
Two female Blanket octopus surprised us and gave us a rare and unforgettable sight.
Size: 1 meter (with an open blanket about 2 meters)
Depth: 9-22 meters

[SergeStorms]

4. Such ethereal beauty.

So delicate and slightly eerie. Like something not of this earth. So much of the earth's oceans remains unexplored, you have to wonder what other natural phenomenon we've yet to experience.

Thanks for posting.

[Joinfortmill]

5. Wow

[Ferrets are Cool]

6. They are some of the most amazing creatures. It's a shame they taste good to some.

[niyad]

7. Just. . .WOW. Thank you so much.