Scientists Discover How Male Octopuses Mate at Arm's Length Using Specialized Arm

Sex at arms length? Male octopuses specialist arm used to seek mate, reveal scientists

Sensory organ in male cephalopod, known as hectocotylus, able to detect female hormone progesterone, even if male cannot see partner Sex might seem an intimate act, but scientists have shed fresh light on how octopuses manage it at arms length. Male octopuses use a specialised arm called the hectocotylus to place a package of sperm inside the female’s reproductive system. Continue reading...

By Nicola Davis Science Correspondent