Another entry in my collection of SCP-inspired creations - using the fifth prompt in the 30-Monster-Challenge - “Mermaid.”



Subject: BA-XX58

Discovered in Venezuela, this anomaly’s actual point of origin remains unknown, as it was found on the property of a wealthy individual, where it was being privately housed as an oddity. A label taped to its tank bore the name "Stargazer." Between the interrogation of witnesses and an investigation of the property, it was discovered that this anomaly was obtained via an individual referred to as “The Caretaker.” Little could be found on the precise details of this transaction, though a small note was eventually discovered in a locked drawer, written on vellum parchment in a cursive script: “Speak your prayers, and your Prayer may speak. Nurture your Prayer, and your prayers may be nurtured. Wrong your Prayer, and your prayers may be wrong." Research is ongoing as to the precise meaning of this message, as well as its originator.

Containment of this anomaly is rather straightforward, as it requires little in the way of environmental furnishings or interaction. A large, reinforced aquarium tank will suffice, supplied with sand or pebble substrate and kept at lower temperatures. Oxygen requirements are minimum, though water should be filtered regularly to maintain a clean environment, and should be of a similar composition to seawater. Feeding requirements are also relatively minimal - it can be adequately sustained by the equivalent of its body weight over the course of a month, though it will eat more if offered. Suitable prey items - prey that it has shown interest in - include various fish and aquatic invertebrates such as squid, though it has also accepted land-dwelling prey such as chickens and goats. As with many creatures found naturally in deeper waters, it has a highly expandable stomach.

While most of its body is analogous to deep sea fish (particularly eels), its most obvious difference is the human-like head and hands at the front of its body, and the flexible, torso-like structure of the upper jaw. The head, while possessing a mouth, is not capable of speech, and seems to be used more for sensory input - mainly sight and smell - and respiration. It may also be used as an additional means of grasping prey items, along with the hands on its lower jaw. These hands do not possess the same level of dexterity of human hands, though they are similar in appearance, and they are often kept in a loosely clasped position. Interestingly for what is presumably a deep sea creature, it does not possess bioluminescence. It’s theorized that the long “antennae” on its body act as additional sensory organs, with studies ongoing to identify what they are meant to perceive.

Most of the time, this anomaly exhibits very low levels of activity (when not being fed). However, four times per year (noted to align with the solstice/equinox dates), its behavior will change. It will move its upper body into a vertical position, described as a “prayer posture,” with its eyes directed upwards, hands clasped and jaws closed. It will not move from this position until 24-72 hours have passed. If disturbed while in this position, it will become highly agitated, exhibiting an uncharacteristically high degree of activity and hostility towards the offender.

Note: It has been discovered that this anomaly becomes more active in the presence of individuals of a religious disposition, often tracking them when they are present in the observation room.



As always, let me know what you think! ^_^ And of course, let me know if you have any other ideas for a creature such as this.

Happy Halloween everyone!