Testudinesarachnis
Spidertle
Field Report Summary
Physical Description
A small, terrestrial turtle with a dark brown, domed shell. Instead of typical turtle legs, it possesses eight slender, segmented legs covered in fine hairs, similar to a spider's legs. The legs allow it to move with surprising speed and agility. It has a pointed beak and small, beady eyes. When threatened, it can secrete a sticky silk from spinnerets located near its tail, quickly enveloping itself in a protective cocoon.
Habitat
Tropical rainforest floor.
Dietary Behavior
Feeds primarily on insects, small reptiles, and amphibians, injecting venom to immobilize prey.
Evolutionary Origin
A bizarre instance of horizontal gene transfer between arachnid and reptilian species, resulting in a venomous tortoise.
Behavioral Notes
Uses its spinnerets to create sticky webs, trapping unsuspecting prey.