The Predator-Prey Relationship between the Octopus (Octopus bimaculatus) and the California Scorpionfish (Scorpaena guttata)

Abstract

The predator-prey relationships between the California scorpionfish Scorpaena guttata Girard and the octopus Octopus bimaculatus Verrill were examined by observations of behavior in aquariums. California scorpionfish eat small octopuses, but they specifically evade large octopuses attempting to stalk them, in contrast with their defensive behavior, employing the venomous spines, against other potential predators. They appear to discriminate between predatory behavior and other kinds of behavior of octopuses. The observations suggest that, in nature, octopuses prey on scorpionfish, principally on the juveniles.