It looks like a quick jab in a bar fight, only it happens under the sea.

Scientists have recently filmed octopuses striking fish while hunting together in groups. Sometimes the punch appears to keep a partner in line. Other times, there’s no obvious reason at all — leading researchers to describe it as a possible act of spite.

Octopuses and certain fish species often hunt collaboratively. The octopus can flush prey from crevices, while the fish chase down anything that escapes. Most of the time, this cooperation works efficiently.

But underwater cameras have captured a surprising twist. An octopus will swing an arm and smack a nearby fish. The fish recoils, and the hunt continues. In some cases, the punch follows a moment when the group stalls or a fish crowds the octopus. Researchers suggest these jabs may help control partners, discourage freeloaders, or reset hunting positions.

In other instances, however, the strike appears to have no functional purpose. The fish wasn’t stealing food, and the hunt wasn’t stuck — yet the octopus still delivered the blow. To human eyes, this behavior can seem petty, though scientists are careful to note that the underlying motivations remain a mystery.

Regardless, these observations reveal the sophistication of octopus behavior. They are not only intelligent but also socially aware — capable of monitoring group dynamics, enforcing rules, and intervening when necessary, all while continuing the hunt.

References

“Octopuses punch fishes during collaborative interspecific hunting events,” Ecology (Wiley)
“WATCH: Octopuses punch fish, sometimes for no apparent reason,” NPR
“Octopuses sometimes punch fish out of spite, scientists say,” The Independent
“Watch Octopuses Team Up With Fish to Hunt — and Punch Those That Don’t Contribute,” Smithsonian Magazine
Disclaimer: Images are AI-generated for illustration purposes only.