Vooluds

Vooluds are a group of small, gelatinous marine animals native to the temperate coastal waters of the Thalassar archipelago. They typically appear as translucent, blob-like colonies that drift with currents, reaching up to several centimeters in diameter. Bioluminescence is common, with individuals emitting a pale blue-green glow at night.

Taxonomy within the vooluds is unsettled in the fictional world. They are cnidarian in broad affinity, lacking rigid skeletons and possessing tentacle-like filaments around a bell- or blob-shaped body. Their tissues are water-rich and capable of rapid shape change.

Ecology: They inhabit shallow bays, seagrass beds and kelp forests, especially near upwellings. They are filter feeders, drawing plankton with mucus nets on their tentacles. Predators include small fish and sea stars that can pierce their outer layer. Vooluds release chemical cues when disturbed, signaling nearby individuals to alter movement.

Reproduction and life cycle: Vooluds reproduce both sexually and asexually. Adults release gametes into the water column or brood buds that detach to form new colonies. Growth is rapid in optimal conditions, and most colonies live several months to a year before senescence.

Human interaction: Locally, vooluds attract divers and are used in decorative bioluminescent displays. Scientists study them for simple body plans and regeneration, but they pose little to no threat to humans.

Conservation and status: Vooluds are widespread in the Thalassar region and are not currently considered endangered; research gaps remain regarding population dynamics and long-term threats from pollution and habitat loss.