Beetlefolk

One of the groups of sentient species living in the Under, the Beetlefolk are the native inhabitants of Emberreach.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Exoskeleton: The beetlefolk possess a robust exoskeleton that covers their bodies, providing protection and structural support. The exoskeleton is composed of thick, chitinous plates, displaying a range of colors and textures, reminiscent of real beetles. It is durable and resistant to the extreme heat of their volcanic environment.
Mandibles: The beetlefolk possess powerful mandibles, adapted for various purposes. Their mandibles can be used for digging through the volcanic terrain, defending themselves, or manipulating objects. They may also have serrated edges or specialized structures for feeding on the unique resources available in their habitat.
Horns and Projections: Some beetlefolk may possess additional features such as horns or projections on their exoskeletons. These distinctive protrusions can have a variety of shapes and sizes, serving as ornamentation, symbols of status, or even as defensive structures.
Wing Covers: While the beetlefolk lack functional wings for flight, their exoskeletons may feature modified wing covers. These covers, resembling the hardened forewings of beetles, can be vibrant and patterned, providing camouflage or serving as visual displays during courtship rituals or social interactions.

Genetics and Reproduction

Reproduction: The beetlefolk reproduce sexually, requiring the involvement of both male and female individuals. When the time for reproduction arrives, males engage in courtship behaviors to attract females. These courtship rituals may involve displays of strength, agility, or the exchange of pheromones.
Gestation Period: The duration of the gestation period varies but typically lasts for several weeks to a few months, depending on the environmental conditions, specifically warmth.
Oviparity: Beetlefolk are oviparous, meaning the female lays eggs rather than giving birth to live young. Once fully developed, the female beetlefolk lays small, sturdy eggs in protected underground chambers beneath pools of laval. These chambers provide a warm and humid environment necessary for the eggs' proper development.
Parental Care: The beetlefolk exhibit varying levels of parental care. After laying the eggs, the female often tends to them, ensuring they remain protected and providing necessary conditions for their development. The level of parental care can differ among individuals, with some females actively guarding the eggs and others providing minimal care.

Growth Rate & Stages

Egg Stage: The life cycle of a beetlefolk begins with the egg stage. Female beetlefolk lay small, sturdy eggs in protected underground chambers under pools of lava. These eggs are carefully tended to and kept in a warm and humid environment to ensure proper development. The duration of the egg stage remains the same, lasting for a few weeks.
Juvenile Stage: After hatching from the eggs, the beetlefolk transition directly into the juvenile stage. At this stage, they already possess the basic characteristics and physical traits of the adult beetlefolk. However, they are smaller in size and still developing their strength, agility, and specialized adaptations. The juvenile stage is a period of growth and learning, where young beetlefolk explore their surroundings, acquire skills, and gradually adapt to the challenges of Emberreach. The duration of the juvenile stage can vary, typically lasting for several months to a year.
Adult Stage: Following the juvenile stage, the beetlefolk reach their adult form. As fully developed adults, they possess the sturdy exoskeletons, robust bodies, and specialized adaptations that enable them to thrive in Emberreach. The adult stage marks the reproductive phase of their life cycle, and they actively participate in various aspects of beetlefolk society, such as resource gathering, craftsmanship, and cultural activities.

Ecology and Habitats

Habitat: The beetlefolk thrive in the subterranean realm of Emberreach, a sprawling network of tunnels and chambers filled with pools and rivers of lava. Their habitat is characterized by a combination of rocky terrain, geothermal vents, and lava flows. They have adapted to the intense heat, unstable ground, and periodic eruptions that are inherent to their environment.
Underground Dwellings: To protect themselves from direct contact with the scorching lava, the beetlefolk have constructed intricate underground dwellings. These dwellings consist of interconnected tunnels and chambers, carefully carved out of the rock formations. The beetlefolk utilize natural crevices and pockets as living spaces, communal areas, and storage.
Resource Utilization: The beetlefolk have a deep understanding of the unique resources present in Emberreach. They have developed specialized techniques to harness the minerals and elements found in the volcanic environment. They utilize the heat and energy from the lava flows for various purposes, such as forging tools, crafting alloys, and generating geothermal power to sustain their community.
Foraging and Gathering: Within Emberreach, the beetlefolk scavenge for plant matter, fungi, and other organic debris that manage to survive in the volcanic environment. They have adapted to utilize these limited resources as a source of sustenance. Additionally, they have an understanding of the unique properties of certain volcanic minerals and utilize them in their diet to fulfill specific nutritional needs.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Plant Matter and Fungi: The beetlefolk primarily subsist on plant matter and fungi that have managed to adapt and survive in Emberreach's extreme conditions. These resilient plants and fungi have developed unique adaptations to withstand the intense heat, sporadic eruptions, and scarcity of resources in their environment.
Foraging Techniques: The beetlefolk employ various foraging techniques to gather the plant matter and fungi they rely on for sustenance. They explore the nooks and crannies of the underground tunnels, carefully searching for patches of vegetation and fungal growth.
Harvesting and Collection: When the beetlefolk locate suitable food sources, they harvest or collect the plant matter and fungi. They carefully cut or detach the portions they require, ensuring that the remaining organism can continue to grow and reproduce, thus maintaining a sustainable food source.
Food Storage and Preservation: Given the scarcity of resources in Emberreach, the beetlefolk have developed methods to store and preserve their food. They create small chambers within their underground dwellings specifically designed for food storage. The beetlefolk employ various preservation techniques, such as drying or fermenting certain food items, to extend their shelf life.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Multi-Faceted Eyes: The beetlefolk have large, compound eyes that provide them with a wide field of view. These multi-faceted eyes allow them to perceive their surroundings with exceptional clarity and detect even the slightest movements. They can see in low-light conditions, aiding their nocturnal activities.

Lifespan

60 years

Average Height

6 feet

Average Weight

160 - 240 lbs

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The beetlefolk's coloration can vary from earthy tones to vibrant hues. They can be shades of brown, black, gray, or even metallic colors like bronze, copper, and even iridescent blues and greens.