Kūr Inū (kuːr iːˈnuː)

Kūr Inū is a coral reef north of the island of Arwa in the Telmun Islands. It is known for the quantity and quality of the pearls harvested there. The name translates roughly to 'Reef of Eyes', as pearls were known as fish-eyes among the early Telmuns.

The reef is also believed to be the entrance to the Telmun afterlife. The god Lugade is lord of Kūr Inū, and married to Ninĝauga, queen of the dead. All spirits who wish to enter into her realm must first pass through Kūr Inū, diving deep below the reef in order to enter the drowned underworld of Ganzir. Passage through the Kūr Inū is not guaranteed to the spirits of the dead, for Lugade will only allow passage to those who carry a coin or a pearl to pay their way. Those who do not have any payment are indentured to Lugade for a span of years. Pearl divers will sometimes encounter these wretched spirits near the reef, and if they offer the ghost a pearl, they will be allowed to move on to their rest. In some stories the generous diver is rewarded for aiding the spirits, but more often the act is considered its own reward.

Ecosystem

Kūr Inū is a vibrant underwater ecosystem that has thousands of species, including countless fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms. Oysters are very common, as the Telmun people have done everything they can to encourage their growth. Whales and dolphins are also frequently seen, and the reef is home to sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.

Type

Coral Reef, Barrier

Location under

Telmun Islands

Geographic Details

Location: Southeastern Region
Latitude: 5.37 degrees North
Longitude: 54.42 degrees East
Area: 79.9 sq mi