A Beloved Octopus Is Spending Her Last Days Nurturing Her Eggs That Will Never Hatch — Here’s What Will Happen to Her Remains (Exclusive)

An octopus named Ghost residing at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Los Angeles is currently in the final stage of her life cycle. Ghost, a giant Pacific octopus, has been tending to her eggs as she enters senescence, neglecting her own needs like eating. The aquarium’s vice president of animal care, Nate Jaros, shared with PEOPLE exclusive insights into Ghost’s condition and the plans in place for honouring her after she passes away.

The fate of Ghost’s remains has also been unveiled by the Aquarium of the Pacific. Once Ghost peacefully passes away behind the scenes, she will undergo a necropsy examination similar to a human autopsy to gain insights into her health. Following this, Ghost will be cremated. Ghost, who arrived at the aquarium in May 2024, was sustainably collected from the wild and is estimated to be between 2 and 4 years old, falling within the average lifespan of giant Pacific octopuses, which ranges from three to five years.

In a touching Instagram post, the Aquarium of the Pacific describes Ghost as a wonderful octopus who has left a lasting impact on the hearts of staff and visitors alike. Honouring Ghost’s memory is a priority for the aquarium, with plans to create merchandise as a tribute to her. These will include a print created by an artist showcasing Ghost’s unique presence and significance.

Jaros expressed gratitude for the widespread attention Ghost’s story has garnered, hoping that her legacy will raise awareness about the vital role aquariums play in educating and connecting people with marine life. Support for aquariums contributes to conservation efforts and the preservation of marine habitats, emphasizing the importance of fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for oceanic ecosystems.

While Ghost’s unique charm cannot be replaced, the Aquarium of the Pacific houses another giant Pacific octopus as part of their diverse marine life collection. Ghost’s presence has touched the lives of many, and the efforts to honour her memory serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact animals can have on both individuals and institutions. The emotional connection shared between Ghost and those at the aquarium exemplifies the beauty and complexity of the animal kingdom.