The English coast has recently observed a significant increase in octopus populations, an occurrence described by local fishermen and market operators as unique in recent memory. This surge initially resulted in unusually large catches for the fishing industry. According to Brixham Trawler Agents, approximately 12,000 tons of octopus were sold between January and August, with a peak of 48 tons sold on a single day.
However, the increased presence has also led to a new development: fishermen are now frequently finding empty shells and skeletal remains in their pots, providing evidence that the octopuses are preying on local shellfish populations, including crabs and lobsters. One veteran fisherman, with 49 years of experience, stated he had never before encountered such numbers in his career. The species involved, Mediterranean octopuses, are known to be both highly intelligent and voracious predators.
Source: www.nytimes.com