#inkbug

Closeups below!!:)

(that didn’t fit in the original post linked above)

Disclaimer!!

my persona isn’t the best example for the inkbug species (though I still think of it in the inkbug format). this species was also made when I was younger, so I still have things to change.

My Persona’s Similarities and Differences:

Similar!!

bun mass not common

no snout

accessory

body shape not a bean

tail has no membrane

peets

Not so similar...

tendrils

head shape

hand,, kind of

not very similar, but it’s fine

(another similarity not seen is the colors; my persona uses only two colors: brown for the body, and green for the accessory and glasses)

oh thank you so much!! 🥺❤️💕💖

I kinda made this messy species guide on the spot since I realize I never actually made one for them before; I don’t talk about my species as much as I’d like to now that I realize o.O

Warning: it’s kinda long!!

i made all these pages; Inkbug physical design stuff actually start on page 6!! the beginning is just lore n stuff to introduce.

i made 14 smol pages total, but realized too late that tumblr only allows 10 photos at a time...

*sOBS*

so I’m keeping the absolutely necessary pages for inkbug design here

for anyone whose having trouble reading my nasty handwriting, the text also is typed at the bottom of each:

Basics on the LORE of Inkbugs:

inkbugs are an alien species that reside in space. they are collectively known as the “peacemasters of the galaxy,” as they travel and adapt to many different environments. their understanding of several alien dialects and languages and ability to withstand various harsh conditions allow them to travel as ambassadors to spread peace and create alliances with other alien species.

inkbugs are made from an ink-like substance found in stars - their structure is small but almost invincible because physical, external harm is difficult to inflict to their resilient body, but can be harmed internally.

they are created similar to plants; an inkpod, similar to a seed or egg, is planted on a celestial body such as a star or planet (idk where the inkpod seed is made). an Inkbug sprouts out soon afterward, with basic knowledge of the universe and their language needed to start their new life.

this way of being reproduced is asexual, so they have no need for sexual or romantic feelings (cough*aro-ace*coughCOUGH). they do not have reproductive systems, so they also do not have male or female genders (cough*non-binary?*COUGH)

okie now for actual design notes!!

the species breaks into two main subespecies: ink-blots and ink-specks (terrible names, I know; they’re changing soon).

Ink-blot Inkbugs have an egghead shape and large eyes at the sides, while ink-speck Inkbugs have a “condensed” head shape with a round snout and foward-facing eyes.

Every Inkbug must / can have...

unusually large bug eyes!!

tendrils (antennae and whiskers) vary; they’re used to help the body collect sensory information needed to rapidly adapt to their environments

a tail with some sort of flat circular membrane attached sideways - this serves another sensory purpose, as well as balance and coordinaton

limbs with 3 sections resembling “fingers”

both can have fur on their bodies for insulation (usually if born on a cold celestial body), but usually only have smooth, rubber-like skin

Exclusive to Inkblots:

inkblot antennae tendril commonly longer (compared to inkspecks)

round ball wrapped on end tips (of tendril)

eyes on side of head (ówò )

less than or equal to 360 degree peripheral vision

eggshape of head can vary!!

usually don’t have accessories like inkspecks do, but they can!!

antennae tendril varies too!!

Exclusive to Inkspecks:

shorter antennae tendril stump

180-270 degree vision

ear extension and tendril and side of head vary!!

tail has more variety than inkblots

can wear a poncho with bow or tie

More Inkbug Facts:

can have extra limbs or tendrils!! extras can be pulled in or pushed out of body

Inkbug language is called Inkard (writing system is loopy and scribble-like. each symbol in the writing represents one syllable, not one letter)

several Inkbugs “sprouting” (aka “born”) from the same celestial body is called (in their language) a poddant; roughly translates to podmate, meaning sibling

they can shapeshift to some extent!!

Inkbug pigment is vibrant when experiencing strong emotion and dull when saddened or mellow

Markings and Color:

the goal is simplicity!! The markings can be just about anything possible, but commonly, Inkbugs are designed usually with two colors, the maximum being about 5. There can be exceptions to this, just as with any other rule here!! And eye color can be whatever, it’s usually a color already on their design.

Some common patterns:

tendril ball and circle tail membrane usually are the same light color

accessories are usually complementary colors, but don’t have to be!!

Inkbugs can be literally any color on the spectrum.

markings vary greatly, but commonly do not have lots of markings; main color is for the body, a supplement color is for markings or fur, usually just one other color that works with the main body color

i have some other facts, but other than that,,, that’s it!! be creative, go wild with it!! and PLEASE show me if you decide to make one!! ask questions if I didn’t clarify well QwQ

there were about 3 other supplement pages as well as a title page, so that’ll be posted later, and I’ll edit this answer to link it!!