Otstarbini

Otstarbini is a fictional aquatic organism referenced in science fiction and worldbuilding literature. In the imagined ecosystems where it appears, otstarbini inhabit shallow coastal reefs around the Otaris Archipelago and surrounding channels. The term is used variably by authors, but is generally associated with luminous, soft-bodied invertebrates that are observed at dusk. The name is often treated as a compound from an in-world language, with otstar- meaning light or glow and -bini a suffix indicating beings or creatures.

Adults measure roughly 4–6 cm in length, with a translucent mantle and a belt of bioluminescent photophores that can shift from pale blue to emerald. They feed on very small planktonic organisms by filtering water and extending feathery filaments. At breeding, they form small aggregations and release bioluminescent trails to spawn that illuminate the water and attract mates. They are harmless to humans in most depictions.

In the lore, otstarbini are prized for their gentle glow, used in lanterns, ritual lamps, and decorative displays. Some communities keep them in controlled saline aquaria for education and heritage events. They commonly symbolize interconnection and the sharing of light among community members. In broader media, otstarbini appear as symbols of fragile beauty and resilient ecosystems.

In-world taxonomy places otstarbini in the fictional family Otstarbinaceae, order Otstarbiniformes, genus Otstarbinus.