Octopus diversity in the East China Sea: a new species of Enteroctopus and reassignment of ‘ Octopus ’ hongkongensis

Abstract

The systematics of the family Enteroctopodidae remains challenging. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we analysed specimens using mitochondrial genome sequencing and detailed morphological examination. These analyses resulted in: (i) the description of Enteroctopus donghaiensis sp. nov., a new Enteroctopus species supported by phylogenetic and morphological evidence; and (ii) the taxonomic reassessment of ‘Octopus’ hongkongensis, whose placement in Enteroctopodidae was confirmed through examination of newly collected specimens. The integration of molecular and anatomical data clarifies the phylogenetic framework of Enteroctopodidae and identifies several lineages that require further taxonomic revision. This work clarifies key relationships within the family and provides a reliable framework for future systematic studies of cephalopods.