Cenode
The Cenode (Pedibus matris) is a species of aquatic insectoid, part of the Subarae family, native to Gymir.
Biology
This creature is unlike other species within Section 3 in that it gives semi-live birth. It grows its spawn from the thoraces. One thorax can contain up to 3 children. The Cenode grows thoraces throughout its lifespan and usually peaks at around 13, though on rare occasions up to 25 have been seen. This is most likely due to infertility in the specimen. When a child is larger than the thorax that contains it, the thorax containing it will stretch rapidly until it eventually ruptures, releasing the child. This has the downside of putting high pressure on nearby amniotic sacs and potentially making them burst while their spawns are still fetal. After giving birth, the amniotic fluid that was once inside the thorax will provide adhesion to the two, now separated and damaged parts of the mother Cenode. This can take from 1 day to an entire week. Though this report has been referring to Cenodes as females, they are, in fact, hermaphrodites. The Cenode also seems to have a symbiotic relationship with the Carcass Pitcher. It has been seen consuming the spores that the Pitcher produces, despite their extreme toxicity. It is unknown if it is naturally immune to the toxin or has evolved to gain nutrition from it. In exchange for the spores, the Cenode brings the corpse of a creature to feed to the Pitcher.
Safety
The cenode is typically docile, though approaching it while it is resting may anger it and prompt it to start attacking. Cenodes are generally slower than the average human in the Gymir Exploration Specialized AMS. However, they are exceptionally good at corners and can catch up easily if you decelerate at any point. Do not, under any circumstances, approach a Cenode when it is in postpartum, as it will put you and the Cenode in great danger. The Cenode may be startled and move, disrupting the adhesion of amniotic fluid and causing permanent damage to the Cenode's body. As for you, there is a high likelihood that exposure to its amniotic fluids will result in what is commonly known as Cenodic Meltdown Syndrome. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to: acute renal failure, severe abdominal bloating, and a general burning sensation of the internal organs. This is mainly caused by inhaling amniotic fluid from the Cenode, which contains flesh-eating bacteria. and its main source of nutrients, the Carcass Pitcher’s spores.
