Octopuses are among the most cognitively complex invertebrates, capable of problem-solving, play, and individual personality expression. Their welfare in captivity and wild harvesting deserves serious attention.
Octopuses in research settings and aquaculture experience stress from confinement, isolation, and inadequate enrichment. As solitary animals with high cognitive needs, they require complex environments to maintain psychological wellbeing. The UK and several EU countries now recognize octopus sentience in animal welfare law.