Chuck Tingle
patreon
CRACKELO - TIMELINE #238991
🕑 Added 2023-07-04 18:21:28 +0000 UTC(Timeline Tuesday #101)
Crackelos are a species of scavenging, semi-aquatic crustaceans from a nearby timeline. They sport five sharp legs, which sprout evenly from the base of their striped, tube-like body. The top of a crackelo features a pointed cone, and this cone is surrounded by a line of nine eyes to help the creature spot any predators making their approach.
This species can breathe both saltwater and air. They prefer warmer climates, and can only thrive in locations where the summer months are particularly hot and sunny.
Crackelos do not actively hunt for their food. In the water, a small mouth at the base of their body takes in plankton as it drifts through the ocean tides. They will often make a meal of any dead organic matter that ends up in the water. Crackelos are skittish and easily-frightened by nature, dispersing across a beach in large crowds whenever they are disturbed.
Crackelos are mostly known for is their reproductive cycle, however. This creature does not need a partner to mate, and while producing offspring means the end of their one year lifespan, this species has still managed to thrive.
When a crackelo remains hot and dry for long enough, a biological chain reaction will occur. This effect happens rapidly, launching these creatures into the air and causing them to erupt in a staggering display of colorful bioluminescence, similar to the pop and shower of a standard firework. When the creatures explode they are instantly killed, but their eggs are scattered across the area and will eventually become the next generation of crackelos.
The time at which crackelos will reach their eruption point can vary across the summer months, but the most common day for these displays is July 4th.
