How Much Does a Pet Octopus Cost?

Owning a pet octopus can be a unique and rewarding experience. However, it's important to be aware of the costs involved before making a commitment. The price of an octopus can vary depending on species, age, size, and location.

Initial Purchase Price

The initial purchase price of an octopus can range from $50 to $500+. The most common octopus species sold as pets are the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) and the California two-spot octopus (Octopus bimaculoides). These species can typically be purchased for between $100 and $200.

More exotic octopus species, such as the giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) or the blue-ringed octopus (Hapalochlaena maculosa), can cost upwards of $1,000.

Ongoing Costs

In addition to the initial purchase price, there are a number of ongoing costs associated with owning an octopus. These costs include:

• Aquarium and Equipment: An octopus will need a specialized aquarium that is at least 50 gallons in size. The aquarium will need to be equipped with a filtration system, a heater, and a lid. The cost of an aquarium and equipment can range from $200 to $500.
• Food: Octopuses are carnivores and their diet consists of live or frozen food, such as shrimp, crabs, and fish. The cost of food will vary depending on the type of food and the size of the octopus. A typical octopus will eat about 10% of its body weight in food per week. The cost of food can range from $10 to $50 per month.
• Veterinary Care: Octopuses are susceptible to a number of health problems, such as bacterial infections, parasites, and respiratory problems. The cost of veterinary care can vary depending on the type of illness and the severity of the condition. A typical veterinary visit can cost between $50 and $100.

Total Cost of Ownership

The total cost of owning an octopus can vary depending on the species, the size of the octopus, and the owner's lifestyle. However, a typical octopus owner can expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 per year on their pet.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the financial costs of owning an octopus, there are also a number of other considerations to keep in mind. Octopuses are intelligent and social creatures that require a lot of attention and interaction. They are also escape artists and can easily get out of their aquarium if they are not properly secured. Octopuses can also be destructive and may damage furniture or other objects in your home.

Before you decide to purchase an octopus, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared to provide the proper care and attention that these animals need.