Gasopod

Template:Class 2 FaunaThe Gasopod is a fairly large, defensive, herbivorous fauna species. It can be found in the Safe Shallows, Crash Zone Mesas, and the Dunes vents, slowly cruising through the wah contains several long tooth-like spikes. The face and mouth have a distinctive gas mask-like look. Two small ear-like fins extend from its neck and it has large, paddle-like flippers that protrude towards its sides. It also features a dorsal fin towards its rear end.

The Gasopod's eyes are of the same color as their pods. The Gasopod's back is a bluish gray, while the belly is a light aqua green color.

Behavior

The Gasopod is not hostile toward the player and will not attack the player directly. However, if the player or another creature perceived as threatening approaches the front end of the creature, the Gasopod will detach a few of its algae pods, which eventually explode into a cloud of poisonous fluid after a few seconds. The gas will harm the player as well as other life forms in its path. The relatively slow speed of the Gasopod, likely due to its massive size, allows the player to retreat easily if this happens.

At night, the Gasopod will move significantly slower and most commonly stop in the water, giving the indication that they are "sleeping". The Gasopod's defensive radius is much smaller, however it will still detach pods from its tail if something should get too close.

Gasopods can often be found in small groups of around two to three.

Gasopods can be stunned by using the Stasis Rifle or attaching a few floaters to them.

While inside the Gasopods poisonous cloud, the player will rapidly take 9% damage, and have an increased decline in nutrition. Upon leaving the cloud, the player will quickly regenerate all lost health.

Energy Value

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Data Bank Entry

A slow-moving lifeform, and one of the larger herbivores on the planet. Providing a substantial meal to would-be predators, the gasopod protects its domain by filling the surrounding water with poisonous and corrosive pods whose contents dissolve even synthetic fibers.

Filtration System:
Thick, non-reactive skin and multiple gill layers render this creature impervious to the noxious acid clouds it produces.
Algae Gland:
A bulbous, sack-like appendage on the rear end. A luminescent yellow algae grows inside the sack and produces the poisonous compound. Abdominal muscles can contract, causing the algae gland to emit the noxious compound into the surrounding water.
Large Pelvic Fins:
Capable of powerful movement through the water when moving in small herds.
Behavior:
Gasopods appear to be social in nature, and may even use their emissions in their relationship rituals. Their audible calls are likely signifiers of nearby threats, or food sources.

Assessment: Approach with caution - Acidic pods may be retrieved and re-purposed