Photo by Dear Sunflower

Marine biologists have launched public surveys to investigate an extraordinary increase in octopus sightings along the South West coast of England. The initiative, coordinated by the Marine Biological Association (MBA), follows widespread reports from fishers and coastal communities of unusually high numbers of common octopus in recent months.

The MBA has described the phenomenon as an “octopus bloom” and is urging members of the public to log sightings online to help build a clearer picture of its scale and drivers. Local authorities and universities are also involved, forming what Devon County Council called an “unprecedented alliance” to study the event.

Scientists believe the surge may be linked to a “perfect storm” of conditions. Warmer waters, increased prey availability and favourable currents are all thought to be contributing factors, according to Sky News. Some experts have also pointed to climate change as a possible long-term driver, with octopus populations known to fluctuate rapidly in response to environmental change.

The Guardian previously reported that local fishers have been surprised by the numbers, with catches increasing sharply. While some welcome the economic boost, conservationists warn that a sudden population surge may disrupt marine food webs and should be carefully monitored.

A stakeholder update published by Defra earlier this month emphasised the importance of gathering robust data quickly. Officials said the research could inform future fisheries management and shed light on how marine ecosystems respond to climate and environmental shifts.

The public survey is expected to run through the autumn, with results feeding into a broader study coordinated across government, academia and industry. For marine policy observers, the bloom offers a rare chance to study ecological change in real time — and to test how effectively citizen science can contribute to marine monitoring.