Sarlas

Measuring at 10 feet long, the Sarlas is a peculiar and potentially frightening sight to the unexpecting. For the first 6 feet, the Sarlas resembles your standard shark, with minor differences. Beyond this point, however, is where the creature gains its true uniqueness. Rather than your standard tail and fins, the back half of the Sarlas is a cluster of tentacles, each measuring 4 feet long from the base to the tip. Generally harmless, they will become hostile and dangerous if upset or trapped. Their strong tentacles and jaws, along with their sharp teeth, make them dangerous to be around if upset.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The front half of a Sarlas resembles that of a medium-sized shark, however, its back half descends into a mass of tentacles. The jaw of a Sarlas is lined with two rows of sharp teeth but lacks a tongue. Located slightly behind the mouth, on the lower sides of its body are gills, with 4 gills being located on both sides.
Midway down its body, its body seamlessly merges into a mass of tentacles. Adult Sarlas's can have between 4-6 tentacles. Each tentacle is fully prehensible and measures 4 feet long. Tentacles lack any form of suckers, but their immense grip strength allows them to hold onto prey. The tentacles of a Sarlas is capable of regenerating if injured or cut off. Each tentacle excretes an oily substance out of the tips when relaxed.
Inside of the Sarlas's front half contains a rigid skeleton with its organs. Its tentacle section does not contain bones and is instead made up of clustered nerves and muscles, allowing for full movement control. The brain of a Sarlas is located a the top of its head, in between where its eyes are located. Located near where its body morphs into tentacles are its stomach and other abdominal organs. The heart of the Sarlas is located underneath its top fin.

Ecology and Habitats

Sarlas's are an aquatic species, unable to survive on land for long. Found across the warm oceans of Kostea, they don't live in colder oceans and rarely travel outside their habitats without a good reason.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Sarlas's feed on small fish in the sea, and despite their potentially scary appearance don't tend to eat anything their size (such as Humans).

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

A Sarlas's tentacles are coated in sticky, thick oil. Harvesting of this oil can be done safely so long as the Sarlas is calm, and can be used in the production of different items, such as special glue. Sarlas meat can also be eaten, and its bones can be used in a variety of ways, including in making powder or colors for paint.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

A Sarlas has 2 eyes on the front of its face for sight, as well as two nostril slits. The side of its head contains two indented ears.

Average Length

10 feet