Aquarium of the Pacific Remembers Beloved Octopus Ghost
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is grieving the loss of Ghost, its beloved giant Pacific octopus, who captivated both staff and visitors alike. Ghost passed away on March 24 after entering senescence, a natural end-of-life stage for female octopuses, following the laying of her eggs in September 2022.
Nate Jaros, the aquarium’s vice president of animal care, expressed the profound impact Ghost had on the aquarium community. “We are going to miss her. Ghost left a big impression on us and on so many people, even those beyond our aquarium,” he stated. “She was spirited and very charismatic and loved to interact with our animal care staff.”
Ghost was introduced to the aquarium in May 2021 and initially weighed around three pounds. Over the subsequent year, she grew to more than 50 pounds and was estimated to be between two and four years old at the time of her death.
The aquarium highlighted that female giant Pacific octopuses typically enter senescence after laying tens of thousands of eggs. The announcement of Ghost’s death resonated deeply among the staff who had nurtured her throughout her life.
“Ghost was a wonderful octopus and made an eight-armed impression on all our hearts. We are grateful for the outpouring of support and care for Ghost,” Jaros remarked. “We hope part of her legacy is raising awareness about octopuses and inspiring people to care for and protect the ocean.”
Giant Pacific octopuses generally have a lifespan of two to five years and are known for their solitary nature.
