Getting into Salt Water, with an octopus!

[JD7.62]

I live about a half mile from the sound so daily 100% waterchanges on a small tank is pretty simple. It would be much easier if I could find out if the local sand and rocks already have beneficial bacteria on them or not so I can set up a larger tank for him.

If I cant keep him alive, he will make superb cobia bait, it is cobia season after all. If he does make it and gets much larger, I can for see him meeting a large grouper in the future. Win-win all around.

 

[Pazzoman]

Lmfao not bad at all fishing wise! Also I think it's illegal to harvest live rock...keep it on the down low lol jk

 

[Younglin]

The octopus at a LFS here will open jars to get at crabs and crayfish. And he will push himself through a 1 inch pvc pipe into another tank. It's awesome. And when he camouflages against the rocks you can't see him at all.

 

[JD7.62]

I dont think chunks of asphalt from several hurricanes from years past would be illegal to harvest.

 

[Younglin]

I dont think chunks of asphalt from several hurricanes from years past would be illegal to harvest.

LOL

 

[Zoodiver]

Several things I'll toss out there, and we'll see where this goes:
Let's assume you have the permit to collect in FL. Taking wet rock/sand is illegal since they don't allow permits for that. You'll have to buy stuff like that for your set up.

A tight lid on a bucket is very poor for gas exchange and water quality. Daily 100% changes are giving this guy huge chemistry swings - and you need to look for something more stable. Also, water by the shore it mostly crap.

You'll need a big tank and enough life support (filter) to keep up if it decides to ink the tank at any point.

They like hiding spots, and will need a secure set up (as posted). Just keep in mind anything bigger than it's beak (which is about the size of an airline tube at this point) is a hole big enough it can wiggle out of if it wants.

If you get all that, and can get it eating you're pretty well off.

 

[TMartinez]

Several things I'll toss out there, and we'll see where this goes:
Let's assume you have the permit to collect in FL. Taking wet rock/sand is illegal since they don't allow permits for that. You'll have to buy stuff like that for your set up.

A tight lid on a bucket is very poor for gas exchange and water quality. Daily 100% changes are giving this guy huge chemistry swings - and you need to look for something more stable. Also, water by the shore it mostly crap.

You'll need a big tank and enough life support (filter) to keep up if it decides to ink the tank at any point.

They like hiding spots, and will need a secure set up (as posted). Just keep in mind anything bigger than it's beak (which is about the size of an airline tube at this point) is a hole big enough it can wiggle out of if it wants.

If you get all that, and can get it eating you're pretty well off.

Very good points here... These guys can slip through almost any crevice. Be VERY CAREFUL with your setup. I have heard stories of octopuses climbing out of filters ( they went up through the intake tube) or through screens on top of the tank. They are extremely smart, more than you might think. I would get the thing identified and get a tank according to it's adult needs

 

[JD7.62]

Taking a chunk of asphalt from the bay is illegal? Some sand? I find that very hard to believe. Can you point me to the legislation that says so?

My original intent on him was to be used for bait so I guess I will just give it my best

 

[GinBlack]

OMG I sooo love Octopus! The only one I have is a 48 inch stuffed animal on my bed! That is so cool you have one! Wish you the best of luck!

 

[TMartinez]

Actually it most states its true. No I live in FL to and will someone say anything to you? probably not. However if Florida Fish and wildlife were to see you, they may and they can give you a fine. Where are you at in Fl? alot of areas are protected too