Deepclaw (Macrochelobathys occulogigas)

Alias: None
Origin: Geba (planet-wide, trenches and subsurface caverns)

The Deepclaw is a massive, solitary predator native to Geba’s deep trenches and subsurface caverns, known for its eyed, lunging attacks and hyper-specialized hunting in low-light environments. Its large, bioluminescent eyes and robust, clawed structure make it a formidable ambusher, capable of striking with precision in near-darkness. Historically feared by Geban explorers, it was rarely encountered but left devastating impacts on early cavern expeditions. Its presence indicates active, mineral-rich trench and cavern systems, making it a key marker for geological surveys, though it poses extreme risks to exploration teams.

Lifespan

Deepclaws live 40–70 Geban years, with slow growth in the first 10 years and peak predatory activity thereafter. They reach maturity at 15 Geban years, reproducing infrequently due to their solitary nature.

Uses

• Ecological role: Controls populations of smaller subsurface fauna, maintaining balance in trench and cavern ecosystems.
• Geological indicator: Presence signals active, mineral-rich trenches and caverns, guiding mining and survey efforts.
• Cultural symbol: Early Geban tribes depicted Deepclaws in cautionary carvings, symbolizing unseen dangers.
• Guidance: Avoid low-light zones; use bioluminescent decoys to distract during deep trench or cavern sampling.

Notes

The Deepclaw’s stealth and lunging attacks made it a significant hazard during the Era of Absolute Expansion (~3,000 YBM), slowing subsurface exploration. Its role in controlling cavern fauna supports ecosystems housing degenerate pre-human species like the Neron. Partial retrievals, often damaged by the creature’s self-preservation mechanisms, limit anatomical understanding, similar to the Boughstrider. Expedition teams should deploy seismic sensors and avoid low-light zones to minimize encounters. Its exclusive subsurface range restricts its impact to Geba’s trench and cavern biomes.