Aquarium Jelly

Aquarium Jellies, or simply "jellies," are one of the strangest species discovered in the recently explored caverns of the Eastern Waste. Their natural habitat is deep underground, but can thrive in any freshwater environment. Jellies are famously symbiotic and prosocial, able to confer feelings of mild euphoria and water-breathing to their "host." However, there have been reports of "mimic jellies," a predatory variant of the aquarium jelly that can have deleterious effects to its host. These rumours are as yet unsubstantiated.

Basic Information

Anatomy

As their name suggests, aquarium jellies most closely resemble jellyfish, although their outer skin is substantially thicker and faintly bioluminescent. Their tentacles have regressed to short stubs which are used to adhere to rock outcroppings. Jellies have no means of independent locomotion, and either drift aimlessly or are propelled by other organisms. Other organisms or human hosts interact with the jelly through the expandible sphincter at the base.

Genetics and Reproduction

Currently unknown how this species reproduces.

Ecology and Habitats

The aquarium jelly's main ecological role is as a habitat for other creatures. Normally air-breathing plants and animals can survive in the oxygen-rich interior of the jelly. Smaller mosses or insects can take up permanent residence inside, while larger animals will push off and use the jelly as a vehicle to cross large bodies of water.
Another fascinating quality that has led to widespread popularity in Laoja is its ability to allow human hosts to breathe underwater. When a human puts their head inside the jelly, the sphincter forms a watertight seal and filters oxygen from its surroundings. The high proportion of nitrogen and oxygen also grants a mild, euphoric high.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The aquarium jelly subsists off microorganisms and siphoned energy from its "hosts." As such, it needs almost no traditional food. It has no natural defenses and relies on its hosts to protect it.

Lifespan

Unknown

Average Height

3 feet

Average Length

3 feet

Geographic Distribution

• The Waste