Octopus

Masters of disguise with incredible color-changing abilities, octopuses are curious and intelligent, often hiding in rocky crevices or gliding along the seabed. They possess remarkable problem-solving abilities and can recognize individual humans.

Habitat: Rocky reefs, caves, sandy bottoms

Best season: Year-round

In Crete

The common octopus thrives in Crete's rocky coastline, especially around the dive sites near Almyrida. Cretan fishermen have traditional methods of catching octopus that date back centuries. In Greek mythology, the octopus was associated with the sea god Poseidon, and octopus remains a cherished delicacy in Cretan tavernas.

Behaviour

Highly intelligent and curious, octopuses actively hunt crabs, mollusks, and small fish. They can change color and texture in milliseconds to camouflage or communicate. Each arm contains a cluster of neurons, essentially giving them eight 'mini-brains'.

Diving tips

Search rocky crevices and look for telltale signs: shells and debris piled outside den entrances. Early morning or dusk dives offer the best sightings as they're more active during low light. Move slowly – they're shy but curious if you're patient.