Clutch Beetles (Diavolos ultraforma) are a species of insectoid Devil.
.anatomy
Clutch Beetles are extremely Anima-sensitive, and can vary drastically between appearance, with each individual being virtually unique in appearance and abilities. to the point they might not even be considered the same species. Some of the only shared characteristics are their their size, reaching an average length of ~6 cm, the presence of an elytra, and the lack of eyes.
.behaviour
Clutch Beetles are parasitic organisms. While they can survive as independent organisms independently, they will attempt to parasitise a possible host when given the chance, with all non-Daemon vertebrates being viable candidates. They will, however, preferer organisms that are injured or dying. Their general behaviour, such as aggressiveness and sociality, also vary drastically between individuals.
The process begins with the Clutch Beetle attaching itself to the nape of the organism. It will then painlessly make its way inside, attaching itself to the host’s brainstem, before merging to the host’s peripheral nervous system, replacing the nerves throughout its body with the Clutch Beetle’s. Clutch Beetles are forever fused to their hosts, and the resulting organisms are hybrids. The process takes less than a second and releases large quantities of heat and light.
.abilities
The abilities of individual Clutch Beetles vary. Virtually no two Clutch Beetles have the exact same ability. Their neural structure is extraordinarily complex, being made of dense microscopic fibres, capable sending signals up to ten times as fast as a regular neuron.
.reproduction
Clutch Beetles reproduce asexually. They lay thousands of eggs at a time, out of which only a handful of larvae hatch. All larvae are identical at birth, and will eat all the eggs that have yet to hatch. Differentiation begins during pupation, during which the larvae are at their most sensitive to environmental Anima. An overwhelming majority of larvae do not reach adulthood due to developmental failures. Adult Clutch Beetles are extremely rare.
Hybrids will always give birth to other hybrids, as long as at least one of the parents is a hybrid, regardless of sex. The only exception is if one of the parents is a Fae/half-breed, in which case the child will be a half-breed/regular human. The abilities of the parent cannot be used to predict the abilities of the child.
.diet
Clutch Beetles do not have a set diet, due to the extreme diversity between individuals. All larvae are omnivorous, however.