=== Major Planetary Zones | (Twin) Sections of the Habitual Belt | Regions | Wildlife ===

====== SKYSHELL CRAB ======

{{ :skyshell_crab_gg_scenic_2d.png?200|}}
===== Overview =====

The Skyshell Crab, called "Zaru-Pelak" by the [[the_orlanda|Orlanda Tribe]], is a semi-aquatic crustacean endemic to the root-covered wetlands of the [[orlanda_marshes|Orlanda Marshes]] in the [[asari|Asari Region]] of the [[habitual_belt|Habitual Belt]] on [[the_planet_voi_700_d|VOI 700 D]]. It is best known for its iridescent, sky-reflective shell that flashes with blue and silver hues under the marsh’s perpetual twilight.

A keystone species, the Skyshell Crab plays a vital role in aerating marsh island soil by digging tunnels beneath the root mats. These passages enhance oxygenation, drain stagnant water, and support healthier vegetation.

===== Physique and Appearance =====

  * **Size:** 10–13 cm across
  * **Weight:** 0.9–1.1 kg
  * **Carapace:** Dome-shaped, smooth shell with a prismatic sheen
  * **Limbs:** 8 legs, 2 narrow-pointed pincers
  * **Speed:** 1.4 km/h (land), 1.8 km/h (swimming)

==== Special Features: ====

  * **Reflective Shell:** Refracts ambient twilight and water reflections, camouflaging the crab
  * **Tunneling Legs:** Flattened front legs for digging through mud and root clusters
  * **Water-Slick Skin:** Reduces drag in marsh water, aiding silent movement

===== Game Mechanics =====

  * **Armor Class (AC):** 12
  * **Hit Points (HP):** 7
  * **Speed:** 20 ft. (land), 25 ft. (swimming)

==== Attacks ====

  * **Pincer Snap:** 1d4 piercing damage
  * **Mud Spray (Defensive):** Launches marsh sediment in a 5-ft. cone (DC 10 Constitution save or blinded until next turn)

==== Special Abilities ====

  * **Soil Aerator:** While burrowing, grants +2 to nearby plant survival and harvest checks
  * **Marsh Camouflage:** Gains +2 to Stealth when motionless in muddy terrain
  * **Twilight Reflection:** Attacks made against the crab in open marshes have -1 to hit if natural light is reflected

===== Behavior =====

  * **Diet:** Detritivore (algae, decomposed root matter, small insects)
  * **Social Structure:** Solitary, but burrows in clusters spaced across islands
  * **Activity Pattern:** Most active during rain or mist drift events

==== Survival Strategies: ====

  * **Reflective Disguise:** Blends with the shimmering water surface
  * **Rapid Retreat:** Burrows backward quickly when startled

===== Reproduction and Lifecycle =====

  * **Breeding Season:** Initiated by heavy rainfall and flooding
  * **Egg Clutch Size:** 100–200 eggs
  * **Nesting Sites:** Buried under elevated root tangles
  * **Hatching Time:** 6–8 days
  * **Lifespan:** 6–9 years (Estimation)

===== Tactical Advice for Dungeon Masters =====

Skyshell Crabs can offer subtle worldbuilding moments or be used as environmental puzzle pieces:

  * **Terrain Indicator:** Their presence often signals stable terrain safe for light-footed travel
  * **Clue Creature:** Burrow entrances may mark hidden paths, buried items, or cave vents
  * **Ingredient Harvesting:** Their reflective shells can be used in ceremonial armor, camo coatings, or signaling devices

===== Related Pages and Further Information =====

  * [[the_planet_voi_700_d|VOI 700 D]]
  * [[habitual_belt|Habitual Belt]]
  * [[asari|Asari Region]]
  * [[orlanda_marshes|Orlanda Marshes]]
  * [[wildlife_of_asari|Known Wildlife of Asari]]

**Known Predators:**

  * [[bogfang_eels|Bogfang]]
  * [[kardar|Kardar]]
  * [[murkbind_serpent|Murkbind Serpent]]