4. Conclusions
Giant Pacific octopuses sampled in Oregon, Neah Bay, Puget Sound and Vancouver Island have
moderate genetic diversity; moderate population structure suggesting limited geneflow between groups;
and three females egg clutches showed evidence of multiple paternity and suggest the females employ a
polyandrous mating system. Due to the significant local population structuring found here, we believe
conservation measures and fishery management policies should incorporate geographic and population
specific goals to ensure the long term preservation of local giant Pacific octopus populations throughout
their range.