Umtrabella

With the development of coral-like organisms who shaped their environment like the Jade Crowns. Some species of chloropseudopods developed to exploit the fruits of other species' labors. Umtrabella is one such development, adapted to cling to the sides of coral shelfs and more often than not the sides of Jade Crown colonies. This chloropseudopod descendant supplements its photosynthesis diet with plankton to a much greater degree then its ancestor. Feeding on the micro-organism even during the day by exploiting the currents running off the shelf of Jade Crown colonies. Pictured here a pair of Umtrabella absorb sunlight while their tentacles wave around in hopes of snaring small organisms for extra nutrients. [Creature Design by Doctor Misa and Saurusblooded]

Basic Information

Anatomy

Physically the Umtrabella is rather similar to its ancestor, possessing a singular eyespot that is sensitive to light and movement, two tentacles capable of filter feeding organism and a long trunk with five basal feet. The major change besides overall larger body size is the positioning and shape of the “umbrella” (the photosynthetic hood). Where in chloropseudopod it was positioned radially around the the eyespot and feeding tentacles, Umtrabella has repositioned it into a dorsal frill that can be used as both a photosynthetic organ and a net to aide in the capture of plankton. The walking feet are capable of secreting a sticky substance or a lubricating substance depending on the orientation of the organism, it will secrete a sticky substance when the organism is climbing up, and the lubricating substance when it is traversing across the ground, usually to mate (a time of high mortality).

Genetics and Reproduction

Umtrabella are hermaphrodites who will gather once every other full moon to release gametes into the water.

Growth Rate & Stages

Umtrabella start life as simple worm-like photosynthetic organism barely 3 cm long. During this time they are fully photosynthetic and living on rocks or retinalphites. After a period of 2 local years they have grown to about 10 cm in height and have developed their umbrella and walking feet. At this stage it will begin incorporating plankton in its diet and move to living on coral shelfs. Preferably Jade Crowns. At 3 local years old they become sexually mature and will participate in releasing their gametes.

Ecology and Habitats

Umtrabella can be found in the coral reef systems between Yama and Kub Shay. They also have a preference of living on the sides of jade crown colonies.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Umtrabella are photosynthetic organisms that supplement their diet by filter feeding on microorganisms like plankton.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

In addition to the central eye the webbing of the umbrella on Umtrabella is sensitive to touch as to help its feeding tentacles to find prey items who have become trapped.

EXTINCT

Genetic Ancestor(s)