Searchlights remake
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Subject Profile
Oculus lucerna, nicknamed ‘Searchlights’ by personnel, are whale-sized deep-sea dwelling Ambulacrarians. They are the largest invertebrates ever discovered and the natural predators of Bathyvermis foedus. O. lucerna was discovered during initial exploration of The Delphic Zone but not formally studied until after the Profundum Foundation had finished construction. They have not received an ANO classification due to being recognised as wild animals.
The meaning of their scientific name, Eye lamp, comes from a specialised bioluminescent organ in the shape of a ring that surrounds their eyes. This bioluminescent ring is capable of producing bright spotlights which illuminate the sea floor, aiding them in finding food.
This species uses a long, stretchy tentacle similar in placement to a tongue that ends in a serrated knife as a weapon for killing and dragging food into their maw. When the arm is not in use, it is left to simply drift in the currents. A spiky segmented exoskeleton comprised of chitin protects the back of O. lucerna, likely intended to prevent other animals from attacking and wounding it.
They have 2 bioluminescent yellow flippers hanging from their sides that are used for movement, and a long tail ending in a bioluminescent yellow fin used for stabilisation and propulsion. This species breathes underwater utilising a set of gills that sit beside their mouth. Dissection and study has revealed that, because O. lucerna evolved incredible vision to complement their bright spotlights, the occipital lobe takes up most of the brain, which means these animals have not been bestowed with great intelligence. Oculus’ are noted to primarily move in groups, although it is not uncommon to find a specimen traveling on its own. A group of Oculus is called a Floodlight.
The youngest stage of an Oculus’ lifespan is the Lightbulb. They are far less large and intimidating than their adult counterparts, as they measure only 2 feet in length and swim close to the sea floor. Lightbulbs are rounder than adults and have their eyes positioned closer to the tops of their bodies. They are scavengers who feed on the faeces and carcasses of other animals.
O. lucerna specimens can live for ~ 80 years, reaching sexual maturity at ~ 23. They do not remain with their mates after successfully reproducing and will breed with multiple partners throughout their lifetime. Female Oculus are the largest of this species, being longer than the average adult baelanoptera musculus musculus, and weigh in at 150-160 tons. Male O. lucerna are half the size of females, have wider bodies, and smaller fins.
Strategy
In the event that Elucidation diving personnel encounter a wild Oculus lucerna, it is recommended to swim away from its path or hide inside a nearby solid object or cave. If neither options are available, personnel are advised to swim above the animal or manoeuvre through its spotlights as a last resort.