Species: Kalioctera

Beetle people! Kalioctera are one of the species you can choose from when making a character in The Snarl.

Kalioctera (kah-LEE-OCT-ur-ah) are a gregarious, wood-boring, herbivorous, beetle-like species. They are masters at crafting elaborate tunnels and homes within the pillars and are known for their artisanal, architectural, and wood-working skills. Each kalioctera has a chitinous exoskeleton, compound eyes, mandibles, antennae, claws, and six limbs. They have two pairs of wings: hardened protective elytra forewings (not used for flight) and softer hindwings that fold under the elytra for protection. They breathe and talk via spiracles in their abdomen, below their thorax.

Kalioctera exhibit sexual dimorphism. Male kalioctera are small, fast, colorful, and capable of flight. Females are much larger and tougher, with horns and more wicked mandibles, though slower and capable of only limited flight (more like assisted jumps, really). Historically, kalioctera communities have leaned towards the matriarchal and polyandrous, with females taking protective and leadership roles and often having numerous male partners.