Beetlephant

Discovery LocationBornean Rainforest Canopy

Lead ResearcherDr. I. Khan

Field Report Summary

Physical Description

A gigantic beetle, about the size of a small car. Its exoskeleton is thick and armored, with a dark green metallic sheen. It has six thick legs tipped with sharp claws. A long, flexible proboscis extends from its head, resembling an elephant's trunk and used for gathering food and water. Two large, ivory-colored tusks protrude from its mandibles. Large, compound eyes.

Habitat

Dense tropical rainforest floor

Dietary Behavior

Consumes decaying plant matter and fruit from the high canopy.

Evolutionary Origin

A rare instance of horizontal gene transfer between a forest elephant and a giant scarab beetle ancestor.

Behavioral Notes

Exhibits a complex social hierarchy determined by the size and iridescence of its carapace.