N'kar Beetle

About

Common Names

N'kar Beetle, Black Corpse Beetle

A carrion eating beetle common throughout Anexea.

Description

Classification

Arthropod, Insect

Size

2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) long

Appearance

Wide bodied beetles, with short antennae, their shells are typically black with a iridescent emerald green flash in strong light.

Variance

Many subspecies of n'kar beetle exist with variations in colour. patterning, or shape of shells, and antennae.

Ecology

Habitat

N'kar beetles are found in nearly any climate and terrain, they dwell in loose soil and detritus.

Diet

N'kar are carnivorous scavengers, and will swarm an animals corpse stripping all flesh and soft tissues with remarkable alacrity. They can also detect carrion from a significant distance, and will travel far and wide in search of a meal.

Behaviour

Social grouping

Solitary, unless encountered as a swarm devouring carrion.

Temperament

Generally oblivious, but will scatter if sufficiently disturbed.

Intelligence

Negligible

Reproduction

N'kar will lay clusters of eggs resembling fat brown grain in and under rotting logs or other wood. Their larva when hatched eat molds and fungi until they pupate into adult beetles and switch to a meat based diet.

Sub-Species

Venomous N'kar Beetle

At least one sub-species had evolved a venomous bite, and will hunt small animals, and other insects when carrion is not readily available. Their venom is less of a threat to large animals or people.

Symbiotic N'kar Beetle

A sub-species of n'kar beetle has adapted into a symbiotic relationship with Snail Trees and Tree Snails, forming a vital link in three part cycle.

Domestication

General

Some cultures may utilize n'kar beetles to remove flesh from corpses before interring the clean bones in reliquary urns and the like.

Resources

N'kar beetles, their eggs, and grubs can provide a source of protein for the less squeamish.

Stories

Breakout (fifty word fantasy)

See Also

Snail Tree

Tree Snail