DRIFTSTALK FISH

Known as “Zorikai” by the Orlanda Tribe, the Driftstalk Fish is a small, camouflaged freshwater species found throughout the shallows and channel systems of the Orlanda Marshes in the Asari Region of VOI 700 D. This fish is a cornerstone of the Orlanda diet and has adapted to blend seamlessly into the shifting aquatic vegetation and root systems of the marsh.

Driftstalk Fish are social, schooling creatures that feed on insects and algae, playing an important role in the marsh's ecological cycle by controlling mosquito populations and promoting algae turnover.

• Size: 7–10 cm
• Weight: ~300 grams
• Body Shape: Flat-bodied and leaf-shaped
• Skin: Mottled green-brown with adaptive chromatophores
• Speed: 2.5 km/h (bursts up to 5 km/h when threatened)

• Drift Mimicry: Mimics the gentle sway of plant matter on water
• Chromatic Camouflage: Can shift shades to blend with vegetation
• Low Wake Movement: Nearly undetectable motion when drifting

• Armor Class (AC): 11
• Hit Points (HP): 5
• Speed: 25 ft. (swimming)

• Swarm Peck (Swarm Only): When in groups of 10+, can cause 1d2 damage per round by nibbling

• Camouflaged Drift: +3 to Stealth while motionless or drifting
• Group Sync: When in schools of 10+, gain +2 AC due to distraction

• Diet: Algae, plankton, mosquito larvae
• Social Structure: Large schools of 30–60
• Activity Pattern: Active throughout twilight hours, schooling during calm periods

• Freeze Response: Mimics floating debris when threatened
• Density Swirl: Schools break apart rapidly to confuse predators

• Spawning Season: Occurs during marsh flood phases
• Egg Laying: Eggs laid on submerged leaves and vines
• Hatching Time: 4–6 days
• Juvenile Phase: Remain tightly schooled for safety
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Driftstalk Fish add life and subtle tension to any scene set in the Orlanda Marshes. Their absence might signal predators, or their sudden scatter may startle players.

• Narrative Detail: Swirling schools can foreshadow larger aquatic threats
• Cultural Flavor: A common staple in Orlanda meals; players might use them as gifts or barter

• VOI 700 D
• Habitual Belt
• Asari Region
• Orlanda Marshes
• Orlanda Tribe
• Known Wildlife of Asari

Known Predators:

• Kardar
• Bogfang