random thought

[castiron]

If I were an Evil Supergenius with Unlimited Resources, I would try to genetically engineer long-lived octopuses, just to see what would happen if their problem-solving skills and ability to learn weren't hampered by a three-year lifespan.

Comments

[nineveh_uk]

You'd better be careful. Such Frankenstein's creatures are notorious for attacking their creators first.

[castiron]

This is true; I'd have to make sure my lair in central Kansas was secure so I could at least survive long enough to see the destruction of human civilization before my inevitable demise at the tentacles of my creations. (The brigades of rolling saltwater tanks would be an impressive last sight, though.)

[legionseagle]

I think it would be advisable also to generate them to be inedible, otherwise their lifespans would continue to be shortened by slow braising over charcoal.

[castiron]

Or grab some genes from the blue-ringed octopus so that if anyone tries to catch them for lunch, it's a fair fight.

[grrlpup]

This endeavor needs maximum funding, stat!

[castiron]

I certainly find it much more interesting than most supervillains' plans for world domination/destruction.

[tolcath]

Andre Norton wrote a short novel that had intelligent and unfriendly octopuses. Sea Siege. It might be entertaining reading while you're waiting for the funds to arrive? ;)