Tidal Jelly
The colorful and gelatinous creature known as the Tidal Jelly can be found along the coasts of many islands across the Veil, particularly in sea caves and brackish waters where salt and fresh water meet. Tidal Jellies are worm-like in shape and nearly translucent, resembling deep-sea salps—silent, drifting cleaners of the ocean depths.
They appear in an array of soft, luminous hues: pinks, blues, yellows, and greens. Their coloration often reflects their diet in a given region, much like how salmon gain their pink hue from consuming krill and shrimp. Tidal Jellies typically grow up to twelve inches in length and can become quite plump in healthy environments. One explorer once described them as “cuter versions of a Gelatinous Horror”—harmless to people, yet remarkably effective at keeping beaches clean.
Tidal Jellies are the unsung heroes of the shore. Curious and efficient, they cleanse coastlines of decaying matter such as dead fish, rotting seaweed, and other refuse that most would find unpleasant. In some cases, they are even capable of absorbing and neutralizing small patches of Umbral Water, though this is not always successful. When exposed to higher concentrations, the Tidal Jelly may begin to rot or dissolve.
Their bond with the shoreline is essential, playing a vital role in maintaining the health of beach sands and coastal ecosystems. These gentle creatures help sustain the delicate balance of the Veil’s rich and biodiverse environments.
Locals affectionately call them “shimmer worms” or “jelly worms,” and regard them as sacred guardians of the shore. Some coastal nobility keep them in royal aquariums—not only for their natural beauty, but for their cleaning abilities. Tidal Jellies are surprisingly easy to care for and are known to thrive in well-maintained enclosures, often becoming oddly affectionate and curious companions.
Basic Information
Genetics and Reproduction
Tidal Jellies reproduce asexually through a process known as cellular division. When conditions are favorable—such as abundant food and clean water—a mature Tidal Jelly slowly constricts its midsection until the body pinches off, creating two smaller but fully functional offspring. These “daughter” jellies then grow rapidly, reaching adult size within weeks. This method of reproduction allows Tidal Jellies to quickly repopulate areas after environmental disturbances, contributing to their important role in shoreline restoration.
Aaaaa I love them. Tidal jellies!
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