Octopus species exhibits rare social and romantic behaviors

Octopuses are mostly loners, and even their mating is typically done from a distance.

One species, however, was seen exhibiting behavior that was not only uncharacteristically social but almost romantic.

Called the Larger Pacific Striped Octopus, the creature is known to occupy the warm waters of the Eastern Pacific.

Scientists studying a group of them learned that when it comes time to procreate, mates actually spend a little time together.

The pair finds a cozy den or shell and cohabitates in it for a couple of days.

During mating, they even touch beaks, which makes it appear like they're kissing.

Another unique characteristic of this species' reproductive process is that the females live long enough to lay several batches of eggs, something other varieties only do once.

See more photos of the odd octopus: