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In a recent news report from ABC, it was revealed that scientists from the Ocean Exploration Trust captured on film one of the rarest sea-dwelling creatures ever: the Dumbo Octopus.

These adorable creatures earned their Disney name because of their small stature (8 to 12 inches long), rounded bodies, and two fins above each eye, reminiscent of a certain beloved cartoon elephant.

The one caught on camera this time, in which you can hear the scientists oohing and ahhing over it, is white and just incredible to look at.

“Ohh, the flappy, flappy ears,” one remarks.

This creature truly does look like something out of a Pixar studio.

But this species, which belongs to the Grimpoteuthis genus of deep-sea umbrella octopuses, comes in all shapes and colors.

It’s also incredible because this is the deepest-sea-swimming octopus to exist, reaching 13,000 feet below sea level.

The Grimpoteuthis genus has specialized biological structures that help it survive this incredibly difficult environment.

There aren’t a lot of food sources at the bottom of the ocean, so the Dumbo Octopus feeds on tiny animals such as crustaceans, worms, and snails.

But sometimes they can’t even get enough of those tiny creatures to survive, so the Dumbo has to conserve energy.

They don’t really swim, but instead, they hover or drift along the ocean floor.

The scientists described the way this Dumbo Octopus moved as so graceful and beautiful, as it just floated around in an ethereal manner.

It almost looks as if it is doing ballet.

The good news is that there aren’t many predators down there with them, as they don’t have much ability to camouflage themselves and don’t have ink sacs, unlike many other octopus species.

For a closer look at the Dumbo Octopus, check out this video.

Related: This Ginormous Sea Lion Visits a Fish Market Every Day Hoping for a Snack

Fun Facts About the Dumbo Octopus

The Dumbo Octopus inhabits the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans.

Obviously, at levels that deep, they’re rarely seen by people.

Most photos must be acquired from robot expeditions.

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Apr 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.