The Enigmatic World of Octopus Mothers: Secrets of Survival and Sacrifice

Many animals die after giving birth, but the mother octopus eats her eggs until she is about to release and begins to automatize herself like smashing herself on a rock, tearing her own skin, even will eat his own arm.

let's further explore the intricate biological processes that unfold when a female octopus lays her eggs, taking a more detailed look at each aspect:

Hormonal Dynamics: The hormonal changes in octopus mothers during the egg-laying and caring phase are a captivating aspect of their reproductive journey. Specifically, the surge in pregnenolone and progesterone levels is worth a closer examination. In various species, including humans, these hormones play pivotal roles in regulating reproductive functions. For instance, in humans, progesterone is associated with egg release and early pregnancy. The octopus's ability to manipulate these hormones showcases the complexity of its reproductive system and warrants further investigation into the specific mechanisms at play.

Cholesterol Synthesis: The synthesis of 7-dehydrocholesterol, or 7-DHC, is another intriguing facet of octopus biology. Humans also produce 7-DHC during cholesterol synthesis, but the compound is rapidly metabolized and not stored due to its potential toxicity. In contrast, octopus mothers appear to produce and retain higher levels of 7-DHC, highlighting the distinctive biochemistry of these creatures. The precise role of 7-DHC in the reproductive process, as well as how it differs from its human counterpart, remains an area of active research.

Human Genetic Disorder Parallels: The retention of 7-DHC in octopuses raises an intriguing parallel with a human genetic disorder known as Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Individuals with this disorder cannot efficiently eliminate 7-DHC, resulting in a spectrum of physical and cognitive abnormalities. Investigating the octopus's ability to manage 7-DHC and its implications for offspring development may yield valuable insights into human genetic disorders and inform potential therapeutic approaches.

Optic Gland Mysteries: Octopus mothers' optic glands add another layer of complexity to the narrative. These glands are involved in the production of components used in bile acids, a class of compounds typically synthesized by the human liver and other mammals. While octopuses do not create the same bile acids as mammals, they seem to generate building blocks for such acids. The significance of these components in octopus physiology, including their potential role in reproduction and overall health, remains a subject of ongoing investigation.

Behavioral Adaptation: The intriguing observation that octopus mothers abandon their eggs and revert to feeding when the nerve cords leading to their optic glands are severed sheds light on the behavioral adaptability of these creatures. This remarkable response demonstrates their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions and prioritize their own survival when necessary. Furthermore, the extension of their lifespan by several months after making this adjustment adds another layer of intrigue to this facet of octopus behavior.

In summary, the biological transformations occurring in octopus mothers during the egg-laying and care phase are a testament to the intricacy and adaptability of life. Octopuses have evolved a unique set of mechanisms to ensure the well-being of their offspring and adapt to different environmental conditions, making them one of the most intriguing and enigmatic creatures in the animal kingdom. The ongoing scientific exploration of octopus biology continues to unveil the remarkable world of cephalopods and their intricate adaptations.

Z. Yan Wang, assistant professor of psychology and biology at the University of Washington, USA, said that if the nerves leading to the optic gland are cut, the mother octopus will abandon the egg, start eating again and live another 4 to 6 months. That's an impressive lifespan extension for creatures that only live about a year.

According to Live Science