Alternate Air Sources
Octopuses are available in the standard 2nd stage design, such as the top example, or in special low profile designs, such as the bottom example.
Octopus
An octopus is an additional 2nd stage that is connected to your 1st stage, and is the most common alternate air source used today. With an octopus, both you and your buddy can breathe from your cylinder while ascending.
The octopus works like any other 2nd stage, but most have a couple minor modifications. The most important is a longer hose that allows it to reach your buddy. Another common modification is a yellow cover to make it more visible when clipped to your chest. Some, like the lower example to the left, have a low-profile design to decrease their size.
The octopus is popular because it's easy to use and costs less than other options. But keep in mind that when using the octopus, your air supply will be depleted faster because two divers are sharing the same air source.
The octopus works like any other 2nd stage, but most have a couple minor modifications. The most important is a longer hose that allows it to reach your buddy. Another common modification is a yellow cover to make it more visible when clipped to your chest. Some, like the lower example to the left, have a low-profile design to decrease their size.
The octopus is popular because it's easy to use and costs less than other options. But keep in mind that when using the octopus, your air supply will be depleted faster because two divers are sharing the same air source.
