Why are octopuses believed to be "Alien"

This is an addendum to the post The murals of Lompoc to explain the concept behind a mural.

Octopuses are often considered "alien" due to their unique and otherworldly characteristics, which set them apart from most other life forms on Earth. Here are some reasons why they are thought of this way:

1. Unusual Anatomy

Eight Arms and Suckers: Octopuses have eight flexible arms lined with suckers that can taste and feel, which is unlike the limbs of most terrestrial animals.

Three Hearts and Blue Blood: They have three hearts and copper-based blood, which is blue, a stark contrast to the red, iron-based blood of most other animals.

Soft, Boneless Body: Their bodies lack bones, allowing them to squeeze through incredibly tight spaces.

2. Incredible Intelligence

Problem-Solving Skills: Octopuses exhibit remarkable problem-solving abilities, such as escaping from tanks, opening jars, and using tools, which is rare for invertebrates.

Complex Nervous System: They have a highly complex nervous system, with most of their neurons located in their arms, enabling them to perform complex tasks independently.

3. Camouflage and Color Change

Chromatophores: Octopuses can change their color and texture almost instantly to blend in with their surroundings or communicate, a trait not found in many animals and one that seems almost magical.

Mimicry: Some species can mimic the appearance and behavior of other animals to avoid predators.

4. Unusual Reproduction

Mating Rituals: Their mating process is unique, with the male using a specialized arm to transfer sperm to the female. After mating, many species exhibit extreme behaviors like the female guarding her eggs until she dies.

Short Lifespan: Despite their intelligence, octopuses have relatively short lifespans, often only living for a few years.

5. Ancient Lineage

Evolutionary History: Octopuses have an ancient lineage, with ancestors dating back hundreds of millions of years. This long evolutionary history, combined with their unique features, makes them seem like creatures from another time—or even another world.

6. Lack of Relatives

Unique Evolution: They are mollusks, but they are vastly different from their close relatives, such as snails and clams. Their distinct evolutionary path gives them a mysterious and alien-like quality.

All these factors contribute to the perception of octopuses as alien-like beings, making them a subject of fascination and mystery in science and popular culture.