(Full-size version here)
While the Aven Expedition first became aware of the presence of Sandworms during the mission to build a mining colony at Sandy Gulch, subsequent expeditions to Hyla's Crescent and Kelori Strand revealed the presence of a distant cousin, nicknamed "Water Worms" as they inhabit watery tunnels in the few forested areas of Aven Prime.
After some analysis, Expedition scientists determined that Sandworms and Water Worms do not build new holes all at once, as this would require them to move massive amounts of material. Rather, they are believed to build and expand their tunnels continuously throughout their life cycle, gradually digging out and widening their tunnel networks as they grow from tiny larvae to full-fledged mature worms over several decades. These holes are then adopted by their descendants.
Over time, several parts of Aven Prime have become riddled with these enormous underground tunnels, allowing both worm species to flourish.
It is believed that the four massive, bony "fang" structures visible near the mouths of both worm species have several purposes, not only assisting the burrowing process, but also serving as a defensive weapon and helping the worms clear out the occasional pests that attempt to infiltrate their tunnels.
Expedition scientists have also detected small earthquakes in areas with substantial worm populations. As both worm species are believed to be highly territorial, it is theorized that some of these quakes may be related to territorial struggles between the worms for control over different parts of the subterranean tunnel network.
Nearly all of the holes visible in Vanaar, Sandy Gulch, Kelori Strand, and the other landing zones are now believed to have been carved out by sandworms at some point.
Although both worm species occasionally take their territorial instincts out on human colonies of the Aven Expedition, it has been discovered that plasma shots from Watchdog Plasma Turrets will scare the worms into retreat without piercing the worms' thick hides or causing any lasting damage.
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Water worms will be coming to the Aven Colony beta and demo in early July.
Stay tuned! We'll be announcing a new, even deadlier addition to Aven Colony next Friday, June 30.