First Reproduction of Octopus mimus Under Controlled Aquaculture Conditions in Southern Peru: Conditioning, Water Quality, and Morphometric Evaluation of Breeders

<i>Octopus mimus aquaculture</i> has gained relevance owing to its commercial potential; however, optimization of its reproductive and growth conditions in captivity requires further study. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive conditioning, morphometric growth, and water quality of this species in a controlled system. To do this, adult <i>O. mimus</i> were selected and kept in circular tanks with controlled temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and salinity. Weight, total length (TL), mantle length (ML), and arm length (AL) measurements were made, in addition to monitoring seawater quality throughout the conditioning cycle. Paralarvae hatching productions were recorded, and Fulton's condition index (<i>k</i>) was calculated to assess octopus health. The results showed that larger females produced more paralarvae, and that temperature significantly influenced the incubation period. The morphometric relationships between TL, ML, and LA were highly correlated, particularly in females. The seawater quality, with temperatures close to 22 °C, dissolved oxygen between 7.8 and 9.2 mg/L, 7.1-8.0 pH, and salinity around 35.3 PSU, was optimal for the welfare and reproduction of octopuses. This study provides keys to the effective management of <i>O. mimus</i> in aquaculture, with an emphasis on the importance of proper water quality management and the selection of larger broodstock.