28/08/2026
Blue Ring Octopus @ Malapascua, the Philippines
Divers frequently spot the exclusive blue-ringed octopus around Gato Island and macro dive sites near Malapascua Island.
Where to Find Them:
Gato Island: Located about 10 kilometers from Malapascua, this protected marine reserve is a top spot for finding them hiding in crevices and sloping reef walls.
Local Reefs: They are also occasionally seen during night or twilight dives at sites like the Lighthouse or Chocolate Island.
Safety and Behavior:
Warning Signs: Their striking electric blue rings flash brightly only when they feel threatened.
Extreme Toxicity: They carry a potent neurotoxin (tetrodotoxin) with no known antivenom.
No Touching: Admire them from a safe distance and never touch or provoke them.