typhlonectes

Dumbo Octopus, Grimpoteuthis sp.

With a ghostly white body, red arms and fin tips, this Grimpoteuthis octopus appears to be dancing in the light from the ROV, like a ballroom dancer with a flowing red dress.

At 3,600 meters depth, this deep-sea octopus uses the movement of its large fins and arms to propel itself through the water. They are affectionately called the “dumbo” octopus because of those flapping fins.

via: Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute