Ghost, SoCal's beloved giant Pacific octopus at the Long Beach Aquarium, has died

""We are going to miss her. Ghost left a big impression on us and on so many people, even those beyond our Aquarium," said Nate Jaros, Aquarium of the Pacific vice president of animal care. "She was spirited and very charismatic and loved to interact with our animal care staff.""

""We hope part of her legacy is raising awareness about octopuses and inspiring people to care for and protect the ocean," Jaros said."

""Ghost had a preference for interacting with her aquarist caregiver, sometimes preferring these interactions over eating. She was especially inquisitive when our staff members would dive in the habitat for maintenance.""

Ghost, a giant Pacific octopus at the Long Beach Aquarium, died after entering senescence, the end-of-life phase post-egg-laying. She arrived at the aquarium in May 2024 weighing three pounds and grew to over 50 pounds. Ghost was known for her spirited personality and interactions with staff. Her care included high-quality seafood and enrichment activities. The aquarium hopes her legacy will raise awareness about octopuses and ocean conservation. Giant Pacific octopuses typically live two to five years, with females dying after caring for their eggs.

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