One of the most striking things about these creatures, however, is the fact that each of their eight arms almost seems to have a mind of its own, allowing an octopus to multitask in a manner that humans can only dream about.

Octopus arms have segmented nerve systems, controlling movement and sensory input. Each segment enables independent control.

The neurons in the octopus's arms are concentrated along an axial nerve cord that undulates down the length of each arm, with nodes centered around each of the suckers. It seems complex and focused, and a team led by neuroscientist Cassady Olsen wanted to study it in detail to see if they could learn more about how it functions.

New research from the University of Chicago revealed that the nervous system circuitry that controls arm movement in octopuses is segmented, giving these extraordinary creatures precise control across all eight arms and hundreds of suckers to explore their environment,

Chicago, United States - January 15, 2025 New research from the University of Chicago has uncovered how octopuses control their extraordinary arm movements with a segmented nervous system, providing them with unparalleled precision.

Never challenge an octopus to a popping and locking dance off, that’s what my grandad always said. With eight worm-like arms, they exhibit extraordinary dexterity and control, and now scientists have uncovered a curious feature of their nervous systems that makes it possible.