Life stages begin as a gel-like egg which can be produced from asexual or sexual reproduction, which will drift in the water until it takes root into a Polyp upon finding suitable conditions to grow. They are sessile during this life stage, filter feeding in the water column using flexible and sticky appendages. Brain development is limited, processing no central nervous system. When ample nutrients have been absorbed, Gelarepods will pinch off the root-like structure tethering them to the floor and begin a mobile existence as a larval Ephyra. Gelarepod ephyra are voracious predators, using more complex versions of their sticky appendages from their polyp life-phase to capture and engulf prey using their stretchy bodies. Brain development primarily occurs during this stage. Starting from around 5 mm they will grow up to a 1/2 meter across. At which they will digest a majority of their tentacles and will build a fleshy Nune around themselves. Inside this nune, they'll mature into adult form. Adults are able to dwell on land in their uncovered state if ample moisture is present in the air.
Adult Gelarepods possess remarkable shapeshifting abilities, able to change their outward appearance and even texture at will. Thought to be an evolved camouflage, with advanced intelligence this ability is now used for aesthetics rather than survival. This 'disguise' exists as an outer casing, the true from residing inside. If sufficiently injured, sick, or nutrient deprived, they will revert to their natural state to save energy.