Octopuses are soft-bodied animals, and their fossilization is extremely rare. However, a team of scientists from the University of Kansas has discovered a remarkably well-preserved octopus fossil from the Cretaceous period.

The fossil, which dates back about 100 million years, was found in the Greenhorn Limestone Formation in Kansas. It includes the animal's body, ink sac, and suckers, making it one of the most complete octopus fossils ever found.

The scientists were able to identify the fossil as an octopus by its characteristic body shape and the presence of suckers on its arms. The ink sac, which is used by modern octopuses to deter predators, was also preserved in the fossil.

The discovery of this octopus fossil is significant because it provides new insights into the evolution of these animals. It also shows that octopuses have been around for much longer than previously thought.

The research team published their findings in the journal "Nature Communications".