Alterra HQ 4546b creature logs: Subnautica/ below zero

Bloop Leviathan/Leviathanus bloopus (1#S/2#S)

Class: Leviathan:

Body:

The Bloop Leviathan is a colossal aquatic creature predominantly found in the shallow waters of Planet 4546B. Its body is an elongated sphere, providing a streamlined yet robust structure. Two large vertical fins on either side of its body generate significant propulsion and maintain balance, allowing it to navigate both calm and turbulent waters with ease. The Bloop's skin is a mottled blue-green, providing camouflage against the ocean floor and surface, effectively blending in with its surroundings to ambush prey.

Eyes:

The Bloop possesses two pairs of eyes, positioned symmetrically on its face. These eyes appear underdeveloped, suggesting that the Bloop relies on other senses for hunting and navigation. It is hypothesized that the Bloop uses echolocation or detects electrical signals emitted by potential prey. These adaptive features make it an efficient predator in the often murky waters of its habitat, compensating for the limited visibility.

Mouth:

The Bloop's mouth is its most distinctive feature, larger than that of any other known creature on Planet 4546B. It remains wide open most of the time, acting as a passive filter feeder. However, the Bloop is also capable of active predation. A secondary jaw, located approximately 7 meters deep within its face, assists in the consumption of larger prey. This jaw can extend outward, securing and drawing in sizable creatures. This combination of passive and active feeding strategies allows the Bloop to exploit a wide range of food sources.

Vortex Attack:

In addition to filter feeding, the Bloop employs a unique and formidable hunting technique known as the Vortex Attack. By rapidly pumping water from its throat into a specialized vacuum-sealed chamber, the Bloop creates a powerful pressure differential. This sudden displacement of water generates a vortex, pulling nearby objects and creatures into its gaping maw. This method allows the Bloop to capture prey that might otherwise evade its passive feeding strategy.

Behavior:

Despite its size and predatory capabilities, the Bloop is generally a solitary creature. It is most active during twilight hours, when its prey is less likely to detect its approach. The Bloop's movements are slow and deliberate, conserving energy for its powerful Vortex Attack. Its solitary nature and crepuscular activity pattern make it a formidable yet elusive presence in the shallow waters.

Weaknesses and Countermeasures:

The Bloop Leviathan, while awe-inspiring, poses a significant threat to divers and submersibles. However, it has certain weaknesses that can be exploited:

Limited Vision: The Bloop's underdeveloped eyes make it less effective in clear, well-lit environments. Divers can use bright lights to disorient the creature.

Dependency on Camouflage: Since it relies on its camouflage, disrupting its environment by stirring up sediment or creating bubbles can make it more visible and less stealthy.

Echolocation Jamming: If the Bloop uses echolocation, emitting loud, irregular noises might confuse its senses and deter it from approaching.

Biomes and Migration:

The Bloop Leviathan prefers shallow, open areas of the ocean, where it can utilize its camouflage and ambush tactics effectively. These areas provide ample sunlight and nutrients, supporting a diverse ecosystem that sustains the Bloop's varied diet. During seasonal migrations, the Bloop may move between different shallow regions, following the patterns of its prey. It tends to avoid deep ocean trenches and highly populated coral reefs, preferring the open expanses where it can leverage its size and strength without obstruction.

Size: Specimen is measured to be 47 meters (154 feet)

Assessment: High threat level

Avoid Being in the Path of the Mouth: The Bloop's immense mouth and powerful jaws can pose a significant threat.

Be Wary of the Vortex Attack: Keep a safe distance to avoid being caught in its vortex.