Colotl
The Colotl are a family of insectoid races indigenous to Occidalis.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The Colotl possess a robust exoskeleton composed primarily of chitin, providing excellent protection against external threats. The exoskeleton is segmented, allowing for flexibility and mobility. Their body is divided into three distinct segments: head, thorax, and abdomen. Each segment serves specialized functions crucial to their survival.
The head of a Colotl is equipped with large compound eyes, offering exceptional vision across different spectra of light, including ultraviolet. These eyes are crucial for detecting prey, navigating their environment, and communicating non-verbally through subtle color changes.
They have sensitive antennae that aid in sensing chemicals in the environment, crucial for communication and detecting pheromones.
The thorax houses powerful muscles responsible for locomotion. Colotl have six legs, each ending in delicate but strong chitinous claws, which allow them to traverse various terrains with ease.
Wings may be present in some Colotl species, enabling them to fly, though flight capabilities can vary greatly depending on the evolutionary lineage and environmental pressures.
The abdomen is primarily dedicated to digestion, reproduction, and in some cases, specialized organs for toxin production or storage. It also contains respiratory organs that facilitate gas exchange through small pores in the exoskeleton.
Colotl exhibit a range of sizes, from small, agile individuals to larger, more robust specimens depending on their ecological niche and evolutionary lineage. Generally, their body proportions are adapted for efficient movement and manipulation of objects within their environment.
Their exoskeleton often displays intricate patterns and colors that serve both as camouflage and as signals for communication within their species. Some Colotl possess the ability to change the color and texture of their exoskeleton slightly, aiding in camouflage and communication.
Depending on their ecological niche, some Colotl species may have specialized adaptations such as venomous stingers, bioluminescent markings, or even symbiotic relationships with other organisms.
Genetics and Reproduction
Reproduction among the Colotl involves intricate courtship rituals and behaviors, often involving visual displays and pheromone communication.
Females typically lay eggs that are carefully tended to until hatching, with parental care varying from minimal to extensive depending on the species.
Behaviour
The Colotl construct large, intricate mounds that serve as their central habitat and societal nucleus. These mounds are built from materials found in their environment, possibly a combination of earth, plant fibers, and secretions that harden into a durable structure. Mounds are layered and compartmentalized, with chambers and tunnels serving different purposes such as nurseries, food storage, living quarters for different castes, and defensive positions.
At the pinnacle of the mound, there exists a central chamber where the Queen resides and governs. This chamber is often the largest and most fortified, symbolizing the power and authority of the Queen.
The Queen’s chamber may be adorned with intricate patterns, pheromonal markers, and possibly artifacts that signify her status and the history of the colony.
The Queen is the central figure in Colotl society, revered and protected by her subjects. She is responsible for reproductive activities, laying eggs, and maintaining the genetic diversity of the colony. The Queen’s pheromones and commands influence the behavior and activities of all other castes within the colony. Her longevity and reproductive success are crucial to the survival and expansion of the colony.
Scientific Name
Insecta Colotl
Geographic Distribution
