For more direct control, use Inverse Kinematics (IK) to drive the entire tentacle chain with a single target controller. 2D Workflow (After Effects)
Use procedural motor systems to automate the "wavy" idle animation of long tentacle chains. 3. Anime-Specific Animation Techniques PB HD - Tentacles for anime girl.mp4
Before animating, define the scene's and layers. For more direct control, use Inverse Kinematics (IK)
Use an Array Modifier with an "object offset" (using an empty) to create a tapering effect where the tail gets thinner toward the end. For more direct control
Use the Puppet Position Tool to place pins along a straight tentacle illustration.