Undergrowth Records: Haemomyxa vampirex

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--Designation: Haemomyxa vampirex

--Clearance: Level 2

--Status: Released.

--Response: NON-LETHAL.

--Classes: ████████, Homomimus, Endoparasite, Hemotrophic.

--Biohazards: Bloodborne pathogen. (minimal risk.)

--Research: Halted.

--Eco Threat: None.

--Hominid Threat: None.

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IDENTIFICATION:

NOTE: Positive identification of Haemomyxa vampirex may difficult without expert experience.

Hosts of Haemomyxa vampirex specimens most often resemble pale hominids, and may be easily mistaken for homo sapiens. They are perfectly capable of mimicking speech, locomotion, and behavior, which allows them to approach their prey without arousing suspicion. No test that relies on behavior or intelligence is capable of identifying an infected individual, but there are a few physical characteristics.

The unique features of Haemomyxa specimens are largely internal, with a few exceptions. Species in the genus are only found in recently deceased corpses, which they puppeteer through the remnants of their nervous system. They are only able to restore enough bodily functions to appear as their host did in life. Outward signs of infection are often related to decay, with room temperature skin, darkened veins, and infrequent (or absent) breathing. A quick examination of the oral cavity will reveal enlarged canine teeth, which the parasite uses for hemotrophic feeding. An aggressive or frightened specimen may bare these fangs in an attempt to scare would-be attackers, but such displays are rare while the parasite maintains its cover.

Internally, the changes are far more drastic. Blood taken from Haemomyxa hosts is often darkened red or black due to the decomposition of blood cells. A ct scan will reveal partially decomposed organs, liquified gray matter, atrophied lungs and stomach, and an overly developed heart disfigured with irregular growths. These unnecessary organs are theorized to become food for the developing parasite as it expands its reach throughout the body.

IN COMBAT: an electric shock may be used to identify a vampirex specimen. A positive result will show a red fluorescence in the host's eyes brought on by bodily trauma, while a negative result shows little outward effect. However, Negative results do not disprove Haemomyxa infection, as the genus is known to have multiple species and sub-species.

PHYSIOLOGY & BEHAVIOR:

The Haemomyxa genus is a homomimus hemotrophic endo-parasite capable of inhabiting hominid bodies and replicating the behaviors of living individuals with pinpoint accuracy. In its natural state outside of a host, Haemomyxa could be compared to a plasmodial slime mold whose body is comprised of decaying blood, iron particulates, and stray proteins in a homogeneous soup. This mass of former blood cells demonstrates enough surface tension to maintain some bodily cohesion outside of its host, but no known specimens demonstrate locomotive ability.

UTILIZATION:

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