Beedleaf Info

BEEDLEAF

The Beedleaf is an interesting creature, thought to be similar to beetles living on planet Earth. However, there are very distinct differences that make it unique to the planet of Kiah. It has been discovered as living mostly in the trees, though there have been some subsets of these water-loving Beedleafs found on the floor of the forest as well, mostly using the vegetation to hide from predators. These little guys have six legs they use to crawl around the forest floor or climb up trees with and feed mostly on smaller insects or various vegetation.

This species is mostly recognizable by the network of tubes that run along its back. These tubes, made of cartilage, are essential for the survival of Beedleafs. Transporting water to the cells of this creature, they have likely evolved over millions of years into a super specialized kind of water transport network. Due to the massive deforestation on the planet, the bugs have had to adapt to having less shade available, thus having to withstand growing amounts of heat. These tubes not only allow proper nourishment for the bug and its cells, but proper hydration as well. Water is taken up into these tubes by highly specialized membranes found on the bottom of the feet of this species, called the hydra-membrane. These membranes, made up of glycerophospholipids, are hydrophilic structures, allowing for absorption of water and repelling substances that may be potentially dangerous, such as toxins too big to fit through the membrane or viruses. Another benefit of having these membranes on the feet of these creatures is the fact that they create just enough suction power to allow them to climb tree trunks, giving them the ability to expand their habitat even more than just staying in the trees or on the forest floor.   

  The back of this bug-like creature is shaped like a leaf, allowing for further protection from predators due to it being made up of keratin, the same stuff that constitutes hair and nails. This tough shield-like structure on it’s back also helps with camouflage, due to its greenish tint and shape. These shields can also be spread and used as wings in case the bug needs to fly short distances or have some air resistance when falling off of a tree. They cannot fly long distances due to the weight of the keratin shield on their back, which can be a set back when trying to avoid certain predators.

One more feature that makes the Beedleaf stand out apart from other bugs is the photospot on top of its head, which rests between the eyes. The photospot detects light shifts from above the Beedleaf, allowing it to be alerted to predators. For example, if a predatory flying creature were to fly close enough to the Beedleaf, the photospot would detect that shift in light frequency and send a signal to the creature to flee from wherever it is currently standing.

Much more research is needed to fully understand how the Beedleaf has evolved over the years and what role it plays in the diverse ecosystem on Kiah, but it is clear that this species is very unique and can overcome huge obstacles such as deforestation and increased time spent in the sun.