May
07

Today in Smithsonian History: May 7, 1987

Female Giant Pacific Octopus Pandora

Pandora, a female Giant Pacific Octopus, at the National Zoo in 2013.   The giant Pacific octopus is the largest octopus species in the world. The octopuses emerge from eggs only a little larger than a grain of rice, but as adults can weigh hundreds of pounds, with an arm span of more than 12 feet. Pandora’s arm span was 7.8 feet, and she weighed 15.4 lbs.   Octopuses, like cuttlefish and squid, can change their skin texture and color as a defense, making them masters of camouflage. (Photo By Abby Wood)

May 7, 1987 A new invertebrate exhibit opens at the National Zoological Park, marking a major step toward transforming the Zoo into a biological park and research center. Invertebrates—creatures without backbones—are nature’s unsung heroes, quietly playing vital roles in earth’s ecosystems. About 99 percent of all known living species are invertebrates.

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Posted: 7 May 2019
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