Sea Creatures of Aquas

ENCOUNTERED Aquas

INTEL The ocean world of the Lylat System has long been remarkable for the complexity of its biosphere. Beneath its surface, Aquas is teeming with life—including an astonishing variety of fish and mollusks.

Unfortunately, Dr. Andross's penchant for unethical experimentation is reported to have made its way to the water planet, where it is having a profound impact on a diverse array of biological life.

Though the specifics surrounding much of Andross's vile work remain unclear, we do know with some certainty that he has modified a giant mollusk known as the Bacoon, transforming it into a bioweapon that emits some type of pollution that appears to be agitating and even mutating the surrounding sea life.

Throngs of organisms that were once peaceful—or at least largely harmless—now pose a threat to anyone or anything that comes near. Of note are the Giant Spindly Fish, a sharp-toothed, prehistoric carnivore; the Giant Anglerfish, whose bioluminescence triggers nearby predators to attack; and bio-electric Circuit Jellyfish, which generate damaging laser beams in closed circuits of three and are resistant to conventional weaponry.

Even the most unassuming creatures have fallen to Andross's debasement. Beware the Dorbin, which launch themselves from the seabed; Exploding Starfish, which are best destroyed at a safe distance; and even Giant Aquas Clams with the ability to discharge energy blasts.

Perhaps the strangest of the undersea organisms is the Garoa, which is highly aggressive and only vulnerable when its shelled appendages move to expose its body.

ASSESSMENT By subjecting the planet's creatures to unethical experimentation and introducing exotic pollutants into the environment, Andross has transformed a tranquil stretch of ocean into a treacherous combat zone. And though the effects are currently localized, they are in danger of spreading.

Meanwhile, analysis suggests Andross's ultimate purpose upon Aquas is to develop bioweapons for deployment into Corneria's oceans and well beyond—a harrowing possibility that must be opposed.