Octopuses could become the next dominant species on Earth if humans become extinct
In the event that humanity becomes extinct due to war or climate change, octopuses have been identified as potential rulers of the Earth, according to leading scientists. It is believed that their intelligence, agility and adaptability position them as candidates for the development of an advanced civilization. Professor Tim Coulson, a zoologist at the University of Oxford, suggests that octopuses could develop tools and technologies to build underwater cities that resemble human societies if the right environmental conditions arise.
Key traits that support octopus dominance
According to one report by DailyMail UK there are several characteristics of octopuses that make them unique. Their problem-solving skills, decentralized nervous system, and ability to manipulate objects allow them to adapt to challenging environments. The report further highlights that while it is unlikely they will transition completely to land due to the lack of a skeleton, it is believed they could find innovative ways to extend their time out of the water, such as developing breathing equipment.
These marine animals, already adept at tool use and hunting, could exploit niches left empty in a post-human world, the report adds. Octopuses are known to thrive in diverse environments, from deep seas to coastal waters, and are capable of both solitary survival and complex behavior.
Primates are unlikely to succeed humans
Contrary to previous theories suggesting that primates could replace humans, the report reveals that researchers argue that primates face many of the same extinction threats as humans. Slow reproduction, vulnerability to predators and dependence on specific ecosystems reduce their chances of survival in a changed world. The report further notes that while intelligent birds and insects exhibit advanced behavior, they lack the agility needed to create tools or transform their environments on a human scale.
Speculative but plausible future
Professor Coulson told the publication that the emergence of octopuses as a dominant species is speculative. Evolution is unpredictable and shaped by countless variables, random mutations, and extinction events. However, given the intelligence and adaptability of octopuses, they remain a strong contender to evolve into an advanced civilization without human influence, he told the publication.
