Expansion of the geographical distribution of the Caribbean reef octopus (Octopus briareus) to the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

A specimen of Octopus briareus was registered in front of the port of Sisal, Yucatan, Mexico. This finding represents the first recording of this species in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, thus expanding its westernmost recognized distribution area on the American continent. The octopus was captured by scientific divers performing routine maintenance at underwater facilities in the area of the discovery. The specimen collected was a female adult weighing 25.3 g. Further exploration in the area and those adjacent to it are required to determine the causes of this species’ displacement and calculate its abundance.