Megaorthoceros Clusterona

Megaorthoceros clusterona split from the megaorthoceros segnoneustes when, like the population that led to the slarti prongangels in the Slarti Salt Lake, several segnoneustes were washed downstream and managed to survive in the salt lake and adapted in this new environment. The clusterona females have not actually changed much physically; however they now cluster together in colonial clumps that can reach 1 centimeter in height. However each cell is microscopic. They do not share nutrients like some of their clustered ancestors have, but do connect their flagella together to keep clumped together. Because of this, all females must filter out their own food through their proboscises.

Males have been altered physically unlike the females. Their flagellum has developed a paddle at its end for better movement. Due to genetic mutation their fins are also held at a downward angle as opposed to straight out to the side. Both sexes are now filter-feeders. Because of their current lifespans, their colonies cannot really exceed 1 cm in height.