Ghost, the Giant Pacific Octopus
She has laid eggs and entered senescence
Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific / Robin Riggs
September 15, 2025
We are deeply saddened by the senescence of Ghost, our giant Pacific octopus. She is resting behind the scenes while our animal care staff provide her care and support through this natural transition in her life cycle.
The end-of-life process that female giant Pacific octopuses go through after laying eggs is the same whether or not the eggs are fertile and unfortunately cannot be stopped or prevented by relocating the eggs. Though senescence is part of the natural life cycle of a female octopus, it is still a sad time for us, especially for those who formed a bond with her as they care for her each day. The care has included hand preparing restaurant quality seafood, curating enrichment activities with her in mind, creating thoughtfully designed habitats, state-of-the-art veterinary care, and more. Ghost is a wonderful octopus and has made an eight-armed impression on all our hearts. We are grateful for the outpouring of support and care for Ghost.
