A common octopus (octopus vulgaris) — the kind featured in
A common octopus (octopus vulgaris), similar to the captivating creature in “My Octopus Teacher,” gracefully navigates the seabed near Marseille, France. This image evokes the wonder and curiosity the documentary inspires, yet prompts reflection on responsible interaction with such wildlife.
The recent sighting of a blanket octopus by marine biologist Jacinta Shackleton at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef was truly exciting. These rare creatures, with the first recorded sighting just 21 years prior, are a testament to the ocean’s hidden wonders. Seeing photos of this elusive animal immediately brought to mind the Oscar-winning documentary “My Octopus Teacher.” It made me ponder: if someone captivated by the film encountered such a creature, what would their reaction be? Would they be inspired to observe from a respectful distance, or would the film’s intimate portrayal encourage them to approach and attempt to touch it? This question highlights a crucial point about how we interpret and react to nature documentaries, particularly in the age of instant online sharing and the allure of what might be perceived as “small insta photos” moments.
“My Octopus Teacher” undeniably mesmerized audiences with its stunning footage of filmmaker Craig Foster’s year-long underwater relationship with an octopus. As a certified dive master and science educator, I, too, was captivated by the film’s beauty. However, I also felt a sense of unease. The documentary, while inspiring, could inadvertently suggest that anyone can easily enter the underwater realm and intimately interact with marine life. This raises concerns about the message viewers might internalize about appropriate conduct in natural environments.
Having spent countless hours underwater, I understand the rarity of encountering an octopus or any nocturnal sea creature during daylight, especially in conditions conducive to filming. To witness such an animal venturing from its hiding place is indeed a privilege worthy of documentation. Yet, my perspective as an educator and conservation-minded individual compels me to consider the potential implications of such portrayals.
Scuba diving ignited my passion in my twenties, and I wholeheartedly wish to share the enchantment of underwater exploration with as many people as possible. Witnessing the alien beauty of marine creatures is an unparalleled experience. However, alongside this desire, I strongly advocate for responsible and informed choices when engaging with the natural world.
Foster states he filmed solo, which, to me, seems improbable given the complexity of underwater cinematography. If accurate, it raises safety concerns, as both freediving and scuba diving carry significantly heightened risks when undertaken alone.
While untrained solo diving is hazardous, the act of touching underwater creatures is even more problematic. A fundamental principle taught to divers is: “Take only photos, leave only bubbles.” My worry is that viewers, moved by “My Octopus Teacher,” might primarily absorb a desire for physical closeness with nature, overlooking the essential understanding of respectful interaction with wildlife. The allure of capturing “small insta photos” of such encounters might overshadow the need for caution and respect.
The author diving at Miami, Florida
The author, Lisa Ellen Niver, explores the vibrant underwater ecosystem at Anglers Reef in Miami, Florida in 2019. This personal experience underscores the importance of responsible diving practices and respecting marine habitats, a crucial message often missed in narratives focused solely on human-animal connection.
In 1963, the Bronx Zoo’s thought-provoking “Most Dangerous Animal in the World” exhibit featured a mirror, reflecting humanity’s potential for both harm and responsibility towards the environment and each other. This concept profoundly resonates in the underwater context.
During a dive in Cozumel, I witnessed a diver harassing a barracuda, behavior that was not only reckless but also endangered the marine life and other divers. Such disregard for wildlife is unacceptable. Touching venomous creatures like rockfish, stonefish, or lionfish can lead to painful and dangerous envenomation. Accidental contact with coral can cause lacerations and expose you to toxins, and physical contact can severely damage fragile coral reefs, already under immense pressure from human activities. I’ve seen divers invasively probe coral heads and small caves to photograph eels, oblivious to the potential harm to both themselves and the ecosystem. An eel bite can result in a locked jaw, necessitating drastic measures to detach the animal.
In terrestrial settings, we instinctively seek permission before interacting with animals, such as asking a dog owner if their pet is friendly. During a wolf and polar bear tour in the Canadian wilderness, a child in our group disregarded instructions and crouched down. Instantly, a wolf turned towards him, prompting a protective response from the adults. This incident served as a stark reminder that in unfamiliar environments, human understanding of wildlife behavior and boundaries can be limited, even when we believe we are knowledgeable.
Human-wildlife interactions can sometimes lead to unexpected co-existence. In Grand Cayman, fishermen cleaning their catches in a specific area inadvertently attracted stingrays, leading to the creation of Stingray City, a popular tourist destination where people can interact with these creatures.
Similarly, in Oslob, Cebu, Philippines, whale sharks began following fishing boats attracted to discarded krill. This interaction, popularized on YouTube, drew tourists. Marine biologists instructed visitors to maintain a safe distance from these massive animals. However, the whale sharks didn’t adhere to these guidelines. These examples, while seemingly positive, underscore the critical need for respect and caution in all human-wildlife encounters. Even seemingly beautiful or exciting interactions must prioritize the well-being of wild animals and their habitats, as well as human safety.
The author diving with sharks in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico in 2016.
Diving with sharks in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico in 2016, the author showcases responsible wildlife tourism. Observing these powerful creatures from a respectful distance highlights the beauty of natural encounters without disrupting animal behavior or habitats, contrasting with the potentially intrusive interactions depicted in documentaries.
Our planet’s natural world urgently needs our protection. “My Octopus Teacher” has undoubtedly inspired millions with the wonders of the ocean. However, I remain concerned about the implicit message that entering a wild animal’s private space and touching it without understanding or consent is acceptable. While Foster likely did not intend to promote such behavior, impressionable viewers might not differentiate between his unique, prolonged interaction and appropriate conduct for the average person. This misinterpretation could lead to harmful consequences for both humans and wildlife. The desire for “small insta photos” should not override responsible interaction.
Foster emphasizes the healing power of his connection with the octopus. In a post-COVID world, many seek to reconnect with themselves, others, and nature. However, this reconnection must be approached with care and responsibility. The well-being of wildlife must supersede our personal desires for interaction. We must remember that a documentary, however moving, is not a manual for personal conduct in the wild.
My hope is that viewers inspired by “My Octopus Teacher” will channel their enthusiasm into tangible actions for ocean conservation. Supporting marine protected areas, reducing plastic consumption, participating in beach cleanups, and treating marine life with kindness and respect are crucial steps. Sometimes, the most profound act of kindness is to observe from afar, appreciating the privilege of witnessing their beauty without intrusion.
As Jacinta Shackleton’s blanket octopus sighting reminds us, countless marine species remain undiscovered, and vast portions of the ocean remain unexplored. May both this rare sighting and “My Octopus Teacher” ignite a passion for exploration and conservation, encouraging adventures that prioritize the safety and well-being of both humans and the incredible creatures we encounter. Let us strive to capture the wonder of the natural world responsibly, ensuring that our interactions, even those shared as “small insta photos,” reflect respect and understanding for the delicate ecosystems we are privileged to witness.
