Creatures with eight limbs: scientists reveal who might "rule the world" if humanity faces extinction.

In the event of humanity's extinction, octopuses could become the dominant force on Earth. They possess not only the intellectual capabilities to establish a new civilization but also the necessary physical attributes. This is reported by Daily Star.

According to Tim Coulson, a leading zoologist and biologist at the University of Oxford, their "dexterity, curiosity, ability to communicate with one another, and superior intelligence" indicate that they could create complex tools to develop a vast underwater civilization akin to Atlantis. It is "unlikely" that octopuses will evolve into fully terrestrial animals, as they have been smart enough to "persist" outside of water and devise new hunting techniques. Currently, these cephalopods are in a "favorable position" to colonize the world should humanity become extinct.

"Their ability to solve complex problems, manipulate objects, and even camouflage with astonishing precision suggests that, given the right environmental conditions, they could evolve into a species capable of creating a civilization after humans are gone. Their advanced neural structure, decentralized nervous system, and remarkable problem-solving skills make octopuses uniquely suited to an unpredictable world," noted Tim Coulson.

These traits will assist them in adapting to changes on the planet, especially in the absence of human influence. At present, the octopus is an "underestimated competitor," as it could be the next intelligent species on the planet after humans.

"Of course, this is merely speculation: evolution is unpredictable, and we cannot say with certainty which direction it will take in the event of humanity's extinction. The future of life on Earth is shaped by countless variables, and any number of species could achieve remarkable results. However, considering the exceptional intelligence of octopuses, their adaptability, and diverse survival strategies, it would not be entirely implausible to imagine them thriving in a post-human world," he added.

Overall, in the case of human extinction due to war or climate change, most scientists agree that the creature that would "replace" us must be agile. Without this, it would be impossible to develop tools "to alter their environment and colonize the planet as humans have done."

Some birds, such as crows, ravens, and parrots, are extremely intelligent and build communal nests that can last for decades. Several insect species construct complex structures reminiscent of human civilization. However, experts claim that neither birds nor insects are likely to fulfill the same role that humans did.

Primates have long been considered the natural predecessors of civilization. Yet, primates are likely to face extinction alongside humans, as they are vulnerable to the same threats. They are limited in terms of the habitats and ecosystems they can inhabit, have slow reproduction and development rates, and depend on cohesive communities for survival. This means they may struggle to adapt to a changed world.

Octopuses have a relatively short lifespan (ranging from 1.5 to 5 years), reproduce, and reach physical and intellectual maturity very quickly. While they can be social creatures, octopuses primarily look after themselves and do not rely on strict, coordinated social behavior like primates.

Recently, it was reported that the largest land animal on Earth is on the brink of extinction. Its population has declined by 90%.

It is worth noting that scientists indicate nearly half of one species is on the verge of dying out. Almost half of all warm-water coral species are on the brink of extinction,