[5][6] Species of Grimpoteuthis are assumed to have a worldwide distribution, living in the cold, abyssal depths ranging from 1,000–7,000 metres (3,300–23,000 ft).

Specimens have been found off the coasts of Oregon, the Philippines, Martha's Vineyard, the Azores, New Zealand, Australia, California, Papua and New Guinea, and in the Gulf of Mexico.

[11] A new family, Grimpoteuthididae (alternatively spelled Grimpoteuthidae), has been proposed to accommodate Grimpoteuthis and those of genera Enigmatiteuthis, Cryptoteuthis, and Luteuthis.

[12][13][14] The persistent confusion and disparity about the taxonomy of these species has been attributed to the poor quality and limited number of specimens available for study.

[32] The cushiony cartilage that can be found in the proximal position of the fin of Grimpoteuthis is responsible for acting as a support for the thick muscles that allow for rapid locomotion.

[34][33] Sexual dimorphism between males and females is less noticeable and consistent in Grimpoteuthis compared to other cirrate octopuses (such as Opisthoteuthis).

[14] Species of Grimpoteuthis face few direct threats from humans largely due to living at depths of 1,000 meters (3,300 ft) and below.