Alterra HQ 4546b creature logs: Subnautica/ below zero

Sea Dragon Leviathan/Draconis thermophilus (1#S)

Class: Titan Leviathan:

Heat-Proof Tissue:

Tissue analysis reveals this specimen consists of approximately 1/3 inanimate materials, concentrated primarily around the chest area. This unique composition likely stems from the consumption and retention of mineral substances, enabling the lifeform to withstand and thrive in extreme temperatures, including active volcanic zones. Remarkably, the Sea Dragon can consume molten materials and expel them at its adversaries, utilizing its environment as a weapon.

Forearms:
The Sea Dragon Leviathan boasts distinct forearms, which serve dual purposes of propulsion and offense. These limbs are equipped with retractable claws capable of tearing through the toughest exoskeletons and armor, marking it as a formidable predator. Data suggests a divergence from other species on the planet tens of thousands of years ago, indicating that the Sea Dragon Leviathan is one of the oldest species on 4546B.

Behavior:
As one of the largest carnivorous species encountered on 4546B, the Sea Dragon views almost everything as potential prey. Due to the scarcity of substantial targets in volcanic cave systems, it often ventures into cooler waters to hunt smaller leviathans. Using ambush tactics and its molten breath to incapacitate prey, it drives them into deeper, hotter waters where they are ultimately boiled alive. This cunning predator uses its environment to trap and overwhelm its victims.

Thermal Vision:
The Sea Dragon Leviathan is equipped with specialized thermal vision, allowing it to detect specific heat signatures of prey even in the most extreme heat. This adaptation is crucial for locating prey in its fiery habitat and ensuring successful hunts.

Molten Breath:
This leviathan is capable of expelling superheated molten materials, which serves both as a defense mechanism and a hunting aid. The molten breath can create lethal traps for its prey, incapacitating them with intense heat.

Armored Scales:
Its body is covered in heat-resistant, armored scales that provide protection against both physical attacks and extreme environmental conditions. These scales are impervious to the searing heat of its volcanic habitat and offer a formidable defense against potential threats.

Weaknesses and Countermeasures:
Despite its formidable nature, the Sea Dragon Leviathan has several weaknesses:

Cold Vulnerability: Although it can venture into cooler waters, prolonged exposure to cold environments weakens it, making it more vulnerable to attacks. Utilizing cold-based weapons or tactics can significantly reduce its threat level.

Inanimate Tissue Vulnerability: The inanimate materials within its chest area, though heat-resistant, are less flexible and more brittle, making them susceptible to kinetic impacts. Targeting this area with high-impact weaponry could potentially incapacitate it.

Ambush Susceptibility: The Sea Dragon relies heavily on ambush tactics. Being aware of its presence and avoiding narrow or enclosed spaces can reduce the risk of an unexpected attack.

Biomes and Migration Patterns:
The Sea Dragon Leviathans predominantly inhabits the deep areas of volcanic zones, where it thrives in the extreme heat. However, it occasionally ventures into colder waters to hunt for prey, taking advantage of the more abundant food sources available there. Its migration between these biomes is driven by its predatory needs, as it seeks out the most opportune hunting grounds.

Population and Conservation Status:
The size and the restricted nature of the cave systems suggest that the population numbers of the Sea Dragon's are extremely low, possibly in the single digits. As with many large predators, a lower population is typical, but it is possible that the diminishing food sources over time have contributed to its rarity. The Inferno Leviathan may be nearing extinction.

Size:
The specimen is measured to be 167 meters (547 feet) in length.

Assessment: Extreme threat - Avoid in all circumstances