Tripodfish
A three-legged scavenger that walks the abyssal plains instead of swimming.
The Tripodfish is a unique and enigmatic marine organism native to the deep waters of Planet 4546B. Unlike most fauna in the game's ecosystem, it possesses three distinct legs that allow it to walk along the ocean floor rather than swim freely through the water column. Often found lurking near thermal vents or within the treacherous depths of the Lost River and Blood Kelp Trench, this creature serves as a fascinating example of the planet's bizarre evolutionary paths.
- Habitat
- Deep Ocean (Lost River, Blood Kelp Trench)
- Behavior
- Passive / Neutral
- Locomotion
- Terrestrial walking on ocean floor
- Diet
- Scavenger / Detritivore
- Defense Mechanism
- None known
- Drop Item
- Tripodfish Meat
Lore & Background
Despite its somewhat comical appearance with its three long, spindly legs and bulbous head, the Tripodfish plays a vital role in the deep-sea ecosystem. It acts as a cleaner, consuming organic debris and small organisms that settle on the ground. Its presence near thermal vents suggests a reliance on the geothermal energy of the planet, similar to how real-world life thrives around hydrothermal vents without sunlight.
In Their Own Story
The Prawn Suit's floodlights cut through the eternal darkness of the Lost River, revealing a silhouette that looked more like furniture than fish. It stood still for a moment, its three legs splayed wide against the rocky substrate. As the pilot drifted closer, the creature began to move, scuttling with an eerie, rhythmic grace across the silt. It paused near a cluster of glowing bacteria, tilting its head as if inspecting the light before continuing its slow patrol through the abyss.
Reader's Guide
The Tripodfish is easily identified by its bulbous, pale body and three long, jointed legs that end in small feet. Its movement is distinct; rather than swimming, it walks along the ocean floor, often found near thermal vents or in deep trenches like the Lost River.
This creature is entirely passive and poses no threat to players or their vehicles. It does not attack, chase, or react aggressively when approached, making it safe to observe up close. Its primary behavior involves scavenging for food on the seabed.
To interact with a Tripodfish, players must use a Prawn Suit equipped with a Drill Arm or simply approach it in a Seamoth or Cyclops. While it cannot be tamed or fed, striking it will cause it to drop Tripodfish Meat, which can be used as food for the player or as an ingredient for crafting recipes.
Did You Know?
- Tripodfish are one of the few creatures in Subnautica that walk on the ocean floor instead of swimming.
- They are commonly found near thermal vents and in deep biomes like the Lost River.
- Despite their strange appearance, they provide a source of food when harvested.