Culex

While they share a number of traits with their much smaller bloodsucking cousins for which they’re nicknamed after, the Culexes that roam the coasts of New Eden are far larger, growing to be nearly as large as a human. They are also far more dangerous than their Earth-born cousins, as they have maintained a blood-heavy diet. This makes them a formidable predator for any mammal found roaming the nearby beaches and wetlands.

Culexes are most commonly found in wet locations, such as coastlines and marshlands, where they mature in large groups. Yet, despite their proximity, Culexes do not operate as organized swarms. While instances have been documented of groups of insects attacking larger creatures, like brontodons, they do not attack in organized swarms and are looking out for their own interests. When hunting prey, “Mosquitoes” will attempt to cripple them with large, jagged projectiles launched from their abdomens. Comprised primarily of a mineral that almost feels like a hardened silk, these projectiles are incredibly deadly against unsuspecting prey, and can tear through just about any creature the Culex comes across.

One mystery about these Culexes that scientists have been unable to explain is the question of where they came from. Nothing quite like it has been catalogued on Alpha Prime, and no researchers have taken responsibility for breeding them. This has led to many wild theories, ranging from illegal genetic experimentation, natural inbreeding, and even an accelerated evolution brought about by the Melding. The most popular theory, though, stems in the idea that the Culex is found throughout Coral Forest are the result of their counterparts feeding off of creatures that had been in contact with the Melding, and carried residual elements of the energy field in their bloodstream.