Rope-eyed corroder

The rope-eyed corroder is a type of creature native to the lower parts of Fathom, with some rare types living near the surface.

Its body consists mainly of a spherical mass covered in interlocking, ring-like plates, such that it bears an impressive natural armor. The mass is permeated by any number of holes, from which limbs may protrude, while a corroder at rest peeks its eyes out of the holes. Most species of corroder have between three and six of these holes, but individuals or types have been seen bearing anywhere from one hole to over a hundred. It is presumed that any corroder to be born without such a hole would die shortly after, as it would be incapable of movement and eating. The holes themselves serve mainly as the outgoing point of the limbs, which are long, rope-like tendrils that can extend significantly longer than the length of the creature. A consistent feature among all corroders is the position of the eyeballs, one eyeball being placed precisely midway down each rope.

This presents opportunities as well as problems for the corroder due to the nature of the ropes: they terminate in long hooks which the corroder uses to attack as well as to anchor itself into the earth. Should the corroder extend all its tendrils, it may find itself stuck for some time in a position in which it cannot unclasp itself in one area without the help of another tendril, and thus cannot readjust its eyes to protect itself either. Regardless, after some difficulty, the corroder ought to escape; the hooks hide glands that secrete a highly corrosive and acidic substance, capable of melting through steel as if it was flesh, giving the corroder its name.