Bristol Aquarium has announced they are "heartbroken" after the death of its "much-loved" resident octopus, DJ. Davey Jones, or DJ as he was affectionately known by the team and visitors was described as "a fun, intelligent Giant Pacific Octopus who was adored by anyone who met him".
In a statement shared on its website, Bristol Aquarium wrote: "DJ had reached maturity which sadly brought with it a natural end to his lifecycle. He was being closely monitored as all octopus react so differently during what is formally known as senescence."
In biology, senescence is a process by which cells age and permanently stop dividing but do not die. It causes a decline in fitness with age which differs from the deterioration of humans usually associated with frailty in extreme old age.
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The statement added: "DJ had stopped caring for himself, as would be observed in the wild. He passed away peacefully in his tank." The aquarium team were heartbroken to have to say goodbye, adding this news will no doubt sadden their annual pass holders and regular visitors alike.
For those hoping to attend one of the aquarium's daily Octopus talks during Easter, the team will instead be offering a talk about the sharks and rays in their coral seas display. For more information about this replacement talk, visitors are advised to speak to a member of staff on arrival or call in advance on 0117 929 8929.
Davey Jones arrived in summer of 2021 following the passing of Gloria, the aquarium's female resident Giant Pacific Octopus. According to Bristol Aquarium's website, both male and female Giant Pacific Octopuses live to about four years old, naturally passing after breeding. They can grow up to three metres in length.
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