We’re killing animals smarter than Dogs’: Scientists warn of ‘octopus farming horror’

The thought of eating farmed octopus is stirring emotions. A Spanish seafood company wants to build the world’s first octopus farm. Critics say such a plan risks crossing ethical lines.

Why are octopuses considered so intelligent?
Octopuses have around 500 million neurones in their bodies. Many of these neurones are spread through their arms. This allows them to act and sense independently. They have been observed to escape enclosures and solve problems. Some have even been known to open jars quite skilfully. One octopus, called Otto, in Germany became famous for squirting water to short-circuit lights. Such behaviours demonstrate awareness and control of the environment. These skills complicate the way that people commonly perceive marine animals.

What are the main ethical concerns with farming?
Scientists agree octopuses feel both pleasure and pain. The UK legally recognised them as sentient under the Animal Welfare Act. This decision highlights concerns about farming practices. Reports say Nueva Pescanova plans to keep them in crowded tanks. The killing method involves submerging them in ice slurry. Neuroscientists argue this process inflicts stress and pain. Critics believe such treatment is not fit for intelligent animals. The debate is pushing animal welfare into sharper focus.

How has the world reacted to the proposal?
In the United States, senators introduced the OCTOPUS Act. This would ban farming nationwide and block imports of farmed meat. Protests have taken place in Madrid against the plan. Within the European Union, calls are growing to stop the facility. Public awareness of octopus intelligence is fuelling the resistance. Campaigners say the industry risks becoming a new form of cruelty. Governments now face pressure to address moral questions raised.