Invertebrate
Common octopus
Octopus vulgaris
IUCN status: Least concern
The reliable macro highlight on Maltese reefs, denning in reef holes and hunting over rubble and sand. Frequently seen at Dwejra and the reef sites, most active around dusk.
- Max size
- Arm span up to ~1m
- Habitat
- Rocky reef and rubble, denning in holes; hunts across sand
Best places to dive with Common octopus
rareoccasionalcommonly seenpeak season
Malta & Gozo
| Month | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| January | commonly seen |
| February | commonly seen |
| March | commonly seen |
| April | commonly seen |
| May | commonly seen |
| June | commonly seen |
| July | commonly seen |
| August | commonly seen |
| September | commonly seen |
| October | commonly seen |
| November | commonly seen |
| December | commonly seen |
Resident year-round across reef and rubble; commonly seen at the Blue Hole, Mgarr ix-Xini and Cirkewwa.
Sources & last checked
Checked July 2026
Research is source-backed, but conditions and fees should still be confirmed locally.
View 1 source and checking notes
- Marine Life Guide Gozo, Comino & Malta, Atlantis Gozo