Inandi

Inandi

Distribution Yalia
Endemicity Districtal

Inandi are translucent cave-dwelling insects found throughout Yalia's subterranean networks. They are highly toxic to most predators but harmless to the kermarou, with which they co-evolved.

Etymology

Unknown.

Morphology

Adults measure 2-8 cm and are largely translucent, featuring subtle bioluminescent patches for mating displays. Hatchlings possess fully formed wings and are flight-capable, whereas adults are grounded due to increased mass. Wing colors are muted. The body is elongated, soft, and adapted for climbing cave surfaces.

Physiology

They utilize bioluminescence for mating displays.

Diet

Not specified.

Mechanisms

They are highly toxic to most predators. Toxicity increases with the depth of the habitat.

Behavior

Life Cycle

The lifespan is approximately four months. Hatchlings emerge winged and mobile; adults lose flight capability. Reproduction occurs once per season.

Social Structure

Populations peak seasonally, contributing significant biomass to the cave food web.

Ecology

Inandi provide seasonal nutrient pulses and shape predator-prey dynamics within cave ecosystems.