Brain Beetle
Also known as thorullitu /θorʊlˈlɪtʰʊ/ among the elfs, the brain beetle is A largish beetle that has a domed carapace that resembles a miniature human brain. While alive, they can be used to store magical energy as well as magical patterns for creating effects. If properly fed and cared for, such beetles can serve this purpose indefinitely. In fact, it appears that this is their reason for being.
The amount of magical energy a brain beetle can store is small, but more than would be indicated by their size. Given its close resemblence to human brain matter, it is theorized that the fleshy mass under the carapace may actually store magical energy and patterns along neural pathways that are very similar to the human brain. The difference is that said patterns are put in place by external influences, not the bettle itself.
Basic Information
Anatomy
In general, brain beetles are very similar to other beetles. However, underneath their oddly shaped carapace is a mass of tissue that seems to serve no biological purpose. Indeed, the tissue is very similar to human brain tissue. However, it is not connected to the nervous system of the beetle, only to a nutrient supply.
Ecology and Habitats
The brain beetle appears to be native to the rain forests of Ishä. It is theorized that the natural magic of the area is what gives the beetle its inherent magical purpose. While they do not survive in any other natural environments (beetles transplanted to other rain forests and other regions do not survive for long), they can live indefinitely in captivity.
When captive, a brain beetle needs sufficient nutrients (primarily decaying plant material; the loam of the floor of the Ishä forests is preferred, but others are possible water, a cool, dark habitat (small wooden boxes seem to work well and the occasional (weekly acceptable, more often preferred) walkabout. They also seem to enjoy being talked to and handled by intelligent beings.
Lifespan
4 years in the wild. Decades in captivity.
Geographic Distribution
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