MMO updates on the octopus bloom

Inviting divers, recreational anglers and the general public who do not submit MMO landings data to report any octopus sightings through our Reporting Portal.

Since spring 2025, the South West of England has experienced an increase in the number of common octopus (Octopus vulgaris). The rise of common octopus in English waters is thought to be linked to environmental conditions, including increasing sea temperatures and elevated numbers have continued into 2026.

MMO is working closely with stakeholders and monitoring landings to build a better understanding of the bloom, its effects on other fisheries and the wider marine environment, and the development of the emerging octopus fishery.

MMO is monitoring landings of octopus, as well as stocks impacted by an increased presence of octopus, such as crab, lobster, scallops, crawfish and whelks. Current landings data is presented in the infographic linked below. We will look to update these infographics towards the start of each month following the official release of MMO Monthly Sea Fisheries Statistics.

We welcome feedback on the octopus infographics and other octopus data products. If you have any suggestions for improvement, please contact us by email.

MMO has developed ID cards for common and curled octopus (Elodene cirrhosa, also known as horned octopus) to help stakeholders identify each species and understand how they are currently managed in England.

These ID cards are available on the MMO Fisheries Management Plan Updates webpage and physical copies are also available at local MMO offices.   

The Octopus Management Group has been established to provide advice and support the development of a long-term strategy for octopus. The group provides a forum for stakeholder engagement and collaboration. It meets on an ad hoc basis, as required.