The coastal zoos’ new octopus exhibit, to be called Octopus Odyssey, is due to open at Easter. It will bring some of the most extraordinary creatures on the planet to Torbay - including the only group exhibit of lesser octopus in the UK.

Living Coasts Director Elaine Hayes said: “Octopuses look so exotic but some can be found surprisingly close to home. They are intriguing and compelling, beautiful and intelligent.”

Octopus Odyssey will be home to common octopus and lesser octopus – both found around UK shores - and the extraordinary wonderpus octopus, from South East Asia. The display will feature a sunken ship theme and provide a dramatic setting for these remarkable creatures. There will be four separate tanks containing four species. One tank will contain four lesser octopus. There will be seven individuals altogether.

Elaine added: “The new exhibit is costing £25,000. The money is part of the RDA grant of £800,000 which the charity received in 2008 and which helped build Local Coasts and Mangrove Swamp.

“Octopuses are quite extraordinary creatures. People know they have eight legs - in fact four pairs of arms with bilateral symmetry – but they also have three hearts and although they are short-lived they are very intelligent and have even been known to use tools. We are very pleased to be bringing such amazing creatures to Torbay. It’s yet another great attraction for local people and visitors alike.”

The group tank of lesser octopus will be unique in the country. Lesser octopus - found around the coasts of the UK - can be aggressive and are highly territorial. They will be provided with regular environmental enrichment and plenty of hiding places and crevasses to reduce the risk of fights.

Octopus Odyssey is due to open at Easter 2010.