The Caribbean reef octopus (Octopus briareus) is a vibrant, nocturnal cephalopod found throughout the warm, shallow reefs of the Caribbean Sea and western Atlantic. Known for its striking blue-green coloration and remarkable camouflage abilities, this species is highly sought after for both local consumption and export, particularly as a delicacy in seafood markets. The primary countries engaged in harvesting the Caribbean reef octopus include Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries use traps, handlines, and spearfishing to capture them. While the octopus supports local economies and traditional diets, concerns about overfishing and habitat degradation have led some nations to adopt seasonal closures and gear restrictions to promote sustainable management of this valuable resource.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.