Synapseissae

Synapseissae is a fictional taxonomic grouping described in speculative biology and science fiction worlds as a clade of small, colonial marine invertebrates characterized by highly integrated neural-like signaling networks that coordinate colony-wide behavior.

In the in-universe taxonomy, the group sits within Domain Eukaryota, Kingdom Nervata, Phylum Synapsozoa, Class Synapseidea, Order Synapseales, and Family Synapseidae. The clade comprises at least two extant genera, Synapsea and Epineuris, and a fossil genus Neurorhabis attributed to the lineage. The arrangement and rank are used to illustrate emergent properties of signaling networks in a modular, colonial body plan.

Morphology and biology: Colonies consist of modular, gelatinous units called nodes linked by dense, synapse-like junctions. Each node bears feeding tentacles and vesicular channels that transmit electrical and chemical signals across the network. Reproduction occurs by budding to extend the colony, with sexual exchange enabling genetic diversity. The colony’s body is soft and adaptable, measuring centimeters to decimeters depending on environmental conditions.

Ecology and behavior: Synapseissae inhabit nutrient-rich marine environments, ranging from cold deep currents to continental shelf regions. They rely on colony-wide signaling to coordinate feeding, locomotion, and defense. Fragmentation can produce viable dispersal units, while persistent networking supports emergent collective behaviors such as synchronized movement and rapid, coordinated responses to change.

Discovery and significance: The group was described by researcher L. Mora in 2149 in the Journal of Speculative Zoology. The etymology blends synapsis with the feminine Latin suffix -ae, reflecting the networked, joined nature of the taxa. In-world, Synapseissae serves as a model for study of emergent properties in modular life.