Biggest octopus in the world: size, weight and records

Animal Diversity Web ranks Giant Pacific octopuses above all other octopus species for size.

Most show an average of 60 kg in weight, alongside a dorsal mantle measure spanning 50 to 60 cm, according to the same review. National Geographic lists Enteroctopus dofleini as the scientific name for a Giant Pacific Octopus.

How large specimens can get

Animal Diversity Web reports measured specimens that weighed as much as 272 kg and reached 9.6 m in radius. National Geographic attributes the size record to a Giant Pacific Octopus specimen that spanned 30 feet across and carried a measured weight of more than 600 pounds. Monterey Bay Aquarium lists its heaviest on record as a measured Giant Pacific Octopus weighing 200 pounds and spanning close to 20 feet across.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game notes a measured 156 pound Giant Pacific Octopus recorded by Canadian researchers. Seattle Aquarium adds that larger Giant Pacific Octopus animals, although less common, have been found weighing up to 160 pounds.

What typical adults weigh

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game gives a usual range of 22 to 110 pounds for a Giant Pacific Octopus, with 45 to 65 pounds as average. Seattle Aquarium places adult weight at 40 to 100 pounds. It gives adults 12 to 14 feet for the relaxed measurement from one tip to the other.

Arm span and terminology

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says adult Giant Pacific Octopus arm length can extend up to 16 feet. They are called arms, not tentacles, the same department notes.