The poor octopuses are very intelligent, but unfortunately in an evolutionary loop that prevents them from fully developing this intelligence due to their short life, which does not exceed two years.
The longest lifespan for any octopi is 5 years for the Giant Pacific Octopus. Since life requires passing genes down via reproduction, maybe evolution will eventually extend there time on Earth. If nothing else at least utilize their intelligence to increase their lifespan.
A Neurobiologists in Chicago linked the 4 stages of an octopus’s life to molecular signals. “They discovered that before mating, octopuses produced high levels of neuropeptides. These small protein-like molecules have been linked to feeding activity in many animals. But after mating, neuropeptide production dropped drastically.” It appears they identified one causation for the shorter lifespan, maybe inhibiting some aspect within this metabolic pathway could provide more time for them?! Is that even a good idea?? Soo many questions lol
Source: https://squeaksandnibbles.com/octopus-lifespan/#increase
