Melwaarden

Melwaarden are a type of mollusk found in the coastal regions of the continent of Eldoria. They are characterized by their iridescent shells, which range in color from deep blues and greens to purples and pinks. The shells are typically spiral-shaped and can grow to be quite large, with some specimens reaching over twenty centimeters in diameter. Melwaarden are primarily marine creatures, inhabiting shallow, sandy seabeds where they filter feed on plankton and small organisms. They possess a single, muscular foot that they use for locomotion and for anchoring themselves to the substrate.

The diet of melwaarden consists mainly of microscopic particles suspended in the water column. They draw water into their shells through a siphon, filtering out food particles before expelling the water. This feeding method makes them an important part of the marine ecosystem, helping to keep the water clear. Reproduction in melwaarden typically occurs externally, with individuals releasing eggs and sperm into the water, which then fuse to form free-swimming larvae. These larvae eventually settle on the seabed and metamorphose into adult melwaarden.

Historically, the shells of melwaarden have been highly prized by the peoples of Eldoria for their beauty. They have been used in the creation of jewelry, decorative objects, and even as currency in some ancient cultures. While direct consumption of melwaarden is uncommon due to their tough texture, their shells remain a significant cultural and economic resource in the region.