Diogmites

Diogmites are a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "The Starless Sea" by Erin Morgenstern. They are described as a type of beetle that inhabits the Harbor, a hidden underground library and repository of stories. These beetles are not ordinary insects; they possess the unique ability to digest and process paper. It is believed that they consume the written words and, in doing so, help to preserve the vast collection of books within the Harbor. Their presence is a subtle yet significant element of the magical realism that permeates the novel, adding to the atmosphere of ancient knowledge and hidden worlds. The exact nature and purpose of the Diogmites are left somewhat enigmatic, contributing to the overall mystique of the Harbor and its inhabitants. They serve as a living, breathing part of the library's ecosystem, symbolizing the enduring power of stories and their ability to sustain life in unexpected ways.