A north-east aquarium which attracts more than 45,000 people to the region every year has unveiled a new exhibit, highlighting one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.
Macduff Marine Aquarium opened its unique octopus enclosure yesterday.
The boneless, eight-legged creatures, which have inspired tales of huge sea monsters throughout history, have proved to be among the attraction’s most popular exhibitions.
And, on Good Friday, the aquarium’s lesser octopus species, common to the Moray Firth, moved into a brand new tank complete with its very own Easter eggs filled with crab meat.
The specially-designed tank, which has been modified to keep the aquarium’s single octopus from escaping, has been funded by the local authority and support group Friends of Macduff Marine Aquarium.
Visitors will now have the chance to view the species crawling through the tank and exploring throughout the day.
A spokeswoman said that because octopuses are among the planet’s most intelligent sea creatures, they presented “challenges” to staff who have to keep them amused every day.
Lauren Smith, who works at the aquarium, said: “I am really excited to see the octopus in her new home – I’ve been working with her in the holding tank behind the scenes since she arrived with us in December and she has proved to have a feisty personality.
“I hope she enjoys exploring her space and that the new display helps people better understand these amazing creatures.”
Manager Claire Matthews added: “We’re really grateful for the extra funds from Aberdeenshire Council and the contribution our Friends of Macduff Marine Aquarium group, which have allowed us to install this new tank and meet our octopus’s needs.
“It’s great to start off the new season with something different for our visitors to look at.”
