Mayan Octopus
SPECIES
Common name
Mayan Octopus
Scientific name
Mayan Octopus
Other names
Four-eyed red octopus
Season
August to December
Features
Known as the Mayan octopus, it is endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula. Scientists believe this species is derived from an ancestor that appeared approximately 5 million years ago.
FAO Main fishing area
Area 31 (Atlantic, Western Center)
Octopus Maya
They belong to the octopod group, an order of cephalopod mollusks that lack a shell and have eight arms. Each of these has two rows of sticky suckers that allow them to adhere strongly to their prey and also allow them to grip rocks while moving, which is achieved by the propulsion they generate by throwing water, since they lack fins for swimming.
It also has characteristic spots below its eyes called ocelli, which give it its common name of "four-eyed octopus." They are marine and carnivorous animals. It is distinguished from the common octopus by its shorter and thicker tentacles. The minimum size for sale is 450 grams, which is generally the weight and size of the Mayan octopus, whose characteristics are well defined by its width, head, size, color, and flavor.
The Mayans Today
We are direct descendants of our ancient culture, formed by expert builders, excellent astronomers, precise calendars, and experienced artists. We continue our traditions, our ways of thinking, and our language, and we are worthy heirs to our origins. Weyano'one: we are here.
The octopus has been an important species in the Mayan diet, as evidenced by the image of an octopus on a ceremonial vase.
