Sausto

This is a species of shiny beetle that lives in harsh desert environments. On Arshilkrin it is very common in Zaidral Niven.

Basic Information

Anatomy

It has a hard exoskeleton, six legs, two sets of mandibles - a larger outer set for grabbing things and breaking off pieces and a smaller inner set for eating, two long sensory appendages at the back, and three eyes. It's exoskeleton is highly reflective to minimize the heat it absorbs.

Genetics and Reproduction

All sausto are kreďnil. They work together with other beetles to make a cave, or they find a cave that is suitable. They excrete a jelly-like substance that contains both sperm and eggs, and it mixes together and combines randomly. After about 15 to 20 days they form tiny beetles, but their exoskeletons aren't fully hardened. They scatter out of the cave and harden in the sun. They grow for about 3-6 months before mating. They typically mate once or twice a year depending on whether they're thriving. They live 3-6 years.

Ecology and Habitats

This beetle is especially adapted to desert environments. It builds tunnels in rocky surfaces to collect and store water, food, and hide from predators.

Dietary Needs and Habits

It eats plants or scavenges other bugs or animals. It uses its larger mandibles to collect and carry food to its home.

Behaviour

It reacts defensively to predators, reflecting light into their eyes and fleeing. It does not have prey as it's a scavenger.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

food, the exoskeleton is sometimes used for jewelry, decoration, or to make shiny paints

Geographic Origin and Distribution

They can be found in hot deserts, in particular rocky areas.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

It can see with its eyes, feel with its legs and sensory appendages, and hear with internal receptors. It can also direct the light it is reflecting in specific directions, which it uses to blind predators.

Lifespan

3-6 years

Average Height

1/2 to 3/4 of an inch

Average Length

1&1/2 to 3 inches

Geographic Distribution

• Arshilkrin