Ga'lyth Armastum caldera "Crystalfeeder", "Armorbug", "Saltshrimp" A pair of Ga'lyth feeding on a volcanic vent, with diver for scale. Art by MaskedHero.Description: Ga'lyth are large (though not as immense as some of their brethren) insect-analogues, native to the oceans of Arcoszard. Armored, passive things, they feed off of volcanic vents, using an internal bacterial biome to chemically process sulfides and maintain themselves. Byproducts and excess minerals are then excreted through their backs, in the cracks between their plates, to form crystalline spines for the purposes of defense. Behavior: Ga'lyth are fairly passive, roaming around the seafloor of Arcoszard in regions of volcanic activity and feeding off of vent emissions as they do. They roam nomadically in such a manner to evade predators, keeping to themselves in small herds, almost like a grazing animal. Tamability: Arguably some of the most placid of Arcoszard's sea life, gifted intelligence on the level of some ruminants, as well as a fairly passive demeanor. If, for whatever reason, one wanted to "tame" them in a similar manner, it would be fairly possible. Where is it found?: Herds of Ga'lyth are found in areas of volcanic activity on Arcoszard's seafloors, and, currently, nowhere else. Rarity: Fairly common within their range, though rarer on a planetary scale. Diet/Method of gaining nutrients and energy: Symbiotic chemoautotrophy; a chemical process powered by volcanic sulfide intake and bacterial symbiosis. Products?: Some rather fetching, large crystals, which can be found shed around volcanic regions across Arcoszard. Reproduction: Fairly simple. A female lays eggs, usually by a volcanic vent, and they are fertilized by a male. The eggs then hatch, producing young that are, effectively, simply a smaller version of the adults, which then join the existing herd under the care of their parents. Size: Approximately the size of your average cow. Weight: Usually around 2,000 pounds. Larger specimens are often heavier, with more crystal spines. Lifespan: They can average 40-60 years in age, and are hardy enough only the largest of the dreaded Kh'ulkal even bother with them. Abilities: Very heavily armored, and spiked. Fairly tolerant of temperature variance. Flaws: Soft underbelly. Generally won't do more than flail around or try to run away if attacked.
