Hermits of the Falls
The Hermits of the Falls, or Ole'uke'loa in their own tongue, are a race of sapient decapods that have evolved to use scavenged giant mollusk shells to defend their own fragile exoskeletons. They live in surprisingly complex structures made out of native vegetation, always caressed by the mists of one of the great falls of[Terrapin Isle](landmark:e3761554-9eba-435b-9dd8-4777859e054b). Considered holy places by everyone on the island, the massive waterfalls dotting the landscape throw out great plumes of vapor as they cascade down the mountains.
Living solitary lives, the crustaceans only pair up to mate and raise children to maturity at age seven. They then go their separate ways, perhaps pairing up again sometime in the future, perhaps not. The reclusive creatures spend years living alone, preferring their own company, and ponderings, to the fellowship and conversation of others.
Basic Information
Anatomy
With segmented bodies protected by farmed mollusk shells, these clever decapods keep themselves safe from the ravages of nature and predators alike using great resourcefulness and stolid wisdom. Their blood is antibacterial and antifungal, and promotes cellular regeneration.
Genetics and Reproduction
Pairing up a few times in their long lifetimes, the solitary creatures only stay together long enough to procreate and raise children to the age of maturity. They are an egg laying species, building elaborate fonts wherein to deposit and fertilize the ova.
Out of a clutch of eggs, up to four are likely to survive to seven years.
Growth Rate & Stages
Ole'uke'loa reach the age of maturity at seven, when the parents separate and leave the established den to the remaining children. As they age, the children will leave and either build new domiciles, or take over old and unused ones, until only one child remains in that hut.
Ecology and Habitats
The Ole'uke'loa inhabit the inland falls of Terrapin Isle in the Warmwind Sea. They farm mollusks for food and carapaces; their economy is based almost entirely upon shells. They live a moist lifestyle, and face death should they remain dry for anything more than six or seven hours at a time. Living, as they do, within the mists of the massive falls, and within an easy hike to the vastness of the ocean, they have little to fear; as long as they stay on Terrapin Isle.
Dietary Needs and Habits
The Ole'uke'loa live on farmed mollusks, small fish, and insects, being more of a "grazing" community, than a meal-taking one.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
These careful crustaceans are comfortable in the coldest of liquid water, using bands of ultraviolet light and subtle echolocation to see while underwater. While above water, they open their eyes, removing the ultraviolet filter, and they see in the wavelengths common to most life on Tellus.
Scientific Name
Paguroidia Sapiensis
Geographic Distribution
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