Mack18853

Item #: SCP-XXXX

Object Class: Euclid

Special Containment Procedures: SCP-XXXX is to be stored in a 50cmX50cmX30cm tank with fake flora inside and a light source over the tank. Only 50 specimens of the object are to be stored in the same tank at a time with others of the same sex. Attempts to assist in mating of specimens are strictly forbidden, and anyone caught doing so will be severely reprimanded. An increase or decrease of numbers is to be reported immediately to either a Researcher or the Senior Researcher. SCP-XXXX is also forbidden from being exposed to more than 30,000 volts. The object is to be fed Malacosoma americanum 3 times daily, or other such insects that have been approved by the Foundation (see Document-XXXX-A).

Description: SCP-XXXX is about One Hundred (100) specimens of an insect resembling the larvae of Epilachna borealis for males and the larvae of Pseudolaureola atlantica for females. The specimen is noted to be very aggressive, more so after mating, and is a carnivorous creature, however it also feeds on electricity. It attaches to an object, usually car batteries and other items with high voltage, and absorbs electricity through usage of its spines, which are very flexible and can stretch to about 7 centimeters. The specimen was discovered after a noted increase of power outages in ████, Michigan, where it was discovered attached to a circuit breaker and an entomologist was called to examine it. Once the entomologist discovered its abilities, the Foundation was contacted and both the entomologist and the family whom discovered it were administered Class A amnesiacs once specimens were collected.

Mating season begins every 6 months, primarily in June and December, during which females will search for more electrical sources that will be used to nourish eggs they will be carrying at the time. Once enough electricity has been absorbed, females will then proceed to look for a mate, feeding on other insects to prevent starvation of themselves and malnutrition of the eggs. Once the eggs have been fertilized, females quickly become more aggressive. If aggravated, the specimen releases a low whistling noise, during which it is advised to move away as quickly as possible. Soon after the whistling begins, the specimen bursts, releasing its eggs onto the ground.
After a period of 3-5 weeks, the eggs will hatch, and the growth cycle of the larvae is completed within 4 weeks. Furthermore, it has been noted that if the specimen absorbs 30,000 volts or more at a single time, it will burst prematurely, whether it is carrying eggs or not. This characteristic is found in both males and females, however only females will be aggressive post-mating.
Currently, about 2500 specimens are being stored at the time of writing this.