Felix's Thesis - Fossils 101

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Felix's Thesis - Fossils 101

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‘The Impacts of Fossil Pokemon Reintroduction in Toroan Ecosystems.’


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Authored by
Félix Desroches

Statement and Index
Thesis Statement:
The impact of Fossil Pokemon in the current ecosystem is an uncertain concept, whereas the modern day Pokemon have adapted and evolved to their present environments, these Pokemon would be introduced into unfamiliar habitats. Which can cause destabilized environments due to outcompeting native species of Pokemon, sometimes leading to the migration or extinction of said species in that habitat.


Index
  • Identifying the innate traits and qualities of the species.
  • Comparing our fossils within a controlled environment to those of Fossil Pokémon reintroduced into the Toroan Ecosystem.
  • Investigating Relicanth and its designation as the "Longevity Pokémon" attributed to its immutable characteristics.
  • Exploring the characteristics of the Paramon Fossils.
Determining the Nature and Species Characteristics of Fossil Pokemon

Reviving fossil Pokémon and introducing them to a controlled environment allows us to study their characteristics and evaluate their potential for reintroduction, but with due caution.


Kabuto & Kabutops
-While previously assumed extinct, some populations of wild Kabuto’s have been found in different regions, primarily at the seabeds, similar to where their fossils have been found.
-Through observation, it becomes evident that Kabuto and its evolved form, Kabutops, are introverted species that favor isolation and stealth strategies for survival. Their tough, resilient shells suggest a natural inclination towards concealment, using their sharp blades to ambush unsuspecting prey.
-Observations indicate that due to its clever and adaptable nature, it is evident that Kabuto can thrive and survive in various environments.
-Referring to Ranger (Ryla) who spearheaded a research expedition to study a population of Kabuto.

Omanyte & Omastar
-These Pokémon were confirmed extinct but have since been reintroduced, sometimes accidentally.
-Upon careful observation, it's evident that these Pokémon display remarkable intelligence and a penchant for mischief, frequently employing their tentacles to play pranks on people. While they share similarities with Kabuto, Omanyte primarily feeds on plankton. On the other hand, Omastar tends to be reclusive but exhibits heightened aggression towards any unsuspecting Pokémon that crosses its path.
-An observed problem has surfaced in the Omanyte population within Toro. It appears that the absence of predators, presumably Archeops and Carracosta, has led to an imbalance in their habitat, resulting in significant disruptions. Consequently, we are compelled to classify this species as invasive, as reported by Rangers (Ryla) conducting research on a population of Omanyte.-

Aerodactyl
-It has been observed in reports from other well respected organizations that Aerodactyls are incredibly fierce and aggressive in nature. Having been reportedly the cause of more than the occasional casualty after being revived, their initial prospects for reintroduction proves lacking.
-Through undergoing our own tests and observations, it has been discovered that they are a decisive and practical species, with a focus primarily on the end result. A need for control, as well as a stubbornness and a tendency to hold grudges will prove hard for the reintroduction of the species.
-Further tests are needed.

Lileep & Cradily
-From the observations made in the experiments, it can be seen that these pokemon are introverted by nature, with a clear and logical approach. This pokemon excels in its efficiency, with its camouflage and enticing techniques in order to catch prey.
-Cradily however seems to be more adaptable and more empathetic with its environment as it has shown a protective nature and the ability to change to new situations.
-Their natures would properly allow for them to be reintroduced into the warm sea currents with minor long term negative effects on their environment and other pokemon. It is even believed that with Cradily’s reintroduction, the habitat will have another strong protector that will not lead to an overall improvement to the lives of the pokemon and the greenery present.

Anorith & Armaldo
-While able to thrive under the careful care of trainers, pretty quickly we have come to realize after the first experiments, including a controlled release of a pair of Anorith into the ocean. It became pretty evident that something was wrong and we hypothesize that the issue with the Anoriths uncomfortable appearance in the sea was due to the composition of the water having changed due to pollution and general passing of time.
-From controlled tests, despite having a tough exterior, Anorith and Armaldo, both show signs of having a gentle personality, being rather easy to tame and make docile.
-The nature of reintroducing Anorith could be closely linked to its evolutionary adaptations. As Armaldo has exhibited signs of being a shore based predator. Favoring the shore, and choosing to hunt in the oceans for its prey, which could suggest that Anorith, with proper protection from an introduction of Armaldos, could perhaps be reintroduced in such a way.
-Further testing will be required.

Cranidos & Rampardos
-From the controlled environment testing stage, Cranidos exhibits a lack of intelligence and leads towards action, with little thought, generally involving headbutting its problems which is likely linked to its evolutionary lack of intelligence.
-Due to their simple and judging nature, it has been observed in the past that Cranidos and Rampardos have been witnessed causing damage to cities and their environment. Caused due to their straightforward approach, which is generally to headbutt and go through their obstacles instead of going around them.
-Further studies are required for their interactions with other pokemon, but from the observed controlled results, it's not believed that they will be suitable for reintroduction.


Shieldon & Bastiodon
-During the controlled testing, with a small environment with a running river, with some different variations of trees, we have found that Shieldon has an instinctive habit to use the rough surfaces present on certain tree barks to polish its head. And from examination of the Armor fossils, there has not been reported damage to the face of the pokemon.
-Upon the introduction of other pokemon and stimuli, it is clear that Shieldon is a defensive, if not pacifistic pokemon with mild mannered tendencies and a clear dislike for conflict. From its evolution, Bastiodon we are able to determine the survivability of the pokemon, and while its head is stronger than diamonds, if attacked from behind, it is helpless.
-The pokemons diet remains, that of leaves and berries, not in danger of upsetting any habitats due to its preferred introverted nature.


Tirtouga & Carracosta
-This pokemon has noticeably been observed as a predator, with an extremely large hunting radius, with a diving depth of approximately 1000 meters and in rare cases, proceeding onto land in order to hunt prey. Carracosta’s tendencies are similar to some other reptilian-type pokemon, showing a slow ability on land, to the point of bringing its prey into the water to finish it off, perhaps hinting Carracosta’s impact on modern day pokemon.
-This pokemon seems to have a predilection for predation upon Omanytes and Omastars, their shells being an excellent resource in their diet in order to strengthen and enhance their own shells. Due to their aggressive and proactive hunting nature, to the point of excess, it is believed to not be suitable for reintroduction into modern day habitats.


Archen & Archeops
-From collated research, due to the initial belief that Archen and its evolution were the ancestors of modern day pokemon. From close studying of the wings and abilities of Archen, such a fact has been ruled out, due to the wings inability for prolonged flight. Given its introduction to the manufactured and controlled environment, we have noticed its ability for self reliance, from the fact that it uses its cries in order to grow its favored food. And as far as transport, it clearly prefers tree tops, leaping between trees and gliding short distances.
-Both pokemon seem to have pack-like instincts, preferring to outnumber and gang up on their prey, using tactics such as cornering and cutting off and interceptions. These pokemon are both omnivorous, meaning that its impact on a suitable habitat may not be as invasive as originally believed.


Tyrunt & Tyrantrum
-Under careful observation, it is unlikely that Tyrunt would mix well into modern environments, which is not to say they would not thrive due to their great strength. They are selfish and show signs that are similar to spoiled children throwing tantrums, however due to their powerful jaws and all around strength, it is clear they are dangerous to their environments and other pokemon.
-It’s been perceived from close watching, paired with the introduction and other stimuli, that a large amount of confidence, clearly warranted due to its strength, it does not seem to care, going so far as to sleep unguarded. Alas, it is a carnivorous pokemon, often preying upon Aurorus, suggesting that it may not be the best candidate for reintroduction.

Amaura & Aurorus
-We attempted to create a suitable environment, taking time to visit Galena, alas it seems that similar to Anorith, Amaura and Aurorus are not able to acclimatize to the modern day environment due to the increased temperatures. While they would be able to live in a place such as Galena, care would have to be taken to maintain the correct temperatures, as well as to prevent any dangerous predators.
-Otherwise, both pokemon are defensive, bordering on the reclusive as they will often freeze pokemon they perceive as predators. Given their herbivore natures, they would make good prospects for reintroduction.

Comparative Study alongside Pokemon Fossils that have already been Successfully Reintroduced.

Pokemon such as Kabuto and Omanyte have been found in certain cases in the Toro Region and we shall research and study the success and impact it has had on their environment.
With this data we will be able to discern possible methods for other Fossils reintroduction and their most suitable environments.

Day 1 Report
Upon arrival at the location, guided by the rangers Ryla and Holly, we set up a basecamp and arranged the different machines that I would be needing for the research that was to unfold on the excursion. The group ventured into the cave, of which the fossil sightings had been reported by various other citizens and documented in the past by the rangers. While I did not know what to expect, being greeted by Aerodactyls living amongst the stalactites was not it. Before entering, I was told that there were other pokemon, but I was not made aware of their presence in this cave, which leads to the question.

How do Aerodactyl, Omastar and Kabutops cohabitate in a habitat that does not equate to their original environments pre extinction?

In order to undergo further studies and investigation upon the natures of Aerodactyls, instead of venturing deeper into the cave, I took the time to make notes on the tendencies and behavior of these pokemon. With a limited amount of time for the expedition, I was urged onwards, taking notes of the different fauna and flora inside the cave; the small animals and varying underground plant life would be suitable as a food source for the Omanyte and Kabuto populations. Given the observations made, it is clear that this population of Aerodactyls have somewhat weakened abilities compared to their ancestors that have been restored through fossils. Which leads to further investigations into the immune systems of Aerodactyls in general, perhaps this is not an evolutionary aspect, and is actually a flaw from not adapting to the current pathogens in the modern world.

As we continued, an orange pigment was noticed from the edge of the water, originally believing it to be the distortion from a Kabuto at the bottom of the pond. It was in actuality, the altered form of a Poliwag, after initial observations, it is a brown alternate form of the pokemon. Soon after, we were able to find a Magikarp, Paras, Golurk, Caterpie, Bellsprout, and a Nidoran. From the short time spent studying, I hypothesize that due to the cave being locked off, that their pigments have changed to better assist their survival. In some extreme cases, we witnessed some pokemon with bioluminescent qualities, being a Crobat, and a Vivillion. I have caught one of each in order to study them more thoroughly later, and to focus on the main purpose of the expedition.

Continuing deeper into the cave, we were able to witness the Omanytes and Omastars interacting. It's quite interesting to see the different habits of how they deal with their prey. Further reinforcing my speculations of their introverted natures. These older specimens of Omanyte and Omastar however seem to move slower than the, of course, younger versions and rely more so on their tentacles to ensnare their prey. It is also interesting to note that they are not the top of their food chain in this cave, as a population of nidoking have also been spotted, with evidence of broken shells nearby. From the short observations, I can reinforce the theory that Omastar went extinct due to the strength and weight of its shell causing difficulties in its abilities to survive.

The Kabuto population is rather smaller in comparison, due to their reserved nature as stealth hunters, simply living off the moss primarily found on the rocks of the cave, as well as any small insects and creatures that arrived nearby. Currently, I believe that Kabuto is the lowest ranking pokemon in this ecosystem, however the environment doesn’t seem to be destabilized, if we factor in the length of time for their cohabitation.


Day 2 Report
If we factor in the balancing of the species when releasing them into the wilds, we could perhaps create the appropriate scenarios for these pokemon to flourish and perhaps even benefit their environments. However, it is hard not to equate the case of Aerodactyl to Anorith, who too would not be able to flourish in its normal environment as it has changed too much. However, I believe a place such as this cave could perhaps be created artificially in order to stimulate the growth and cohabitation of fossils such as Anorith in order to adapt slowly over time.

Due to the time constraints surrounding the expedition, we prepared some experiments using the equipment we had brought. As well as undergoing a comparison study with my own restored fossils and the ones found in the cave. Due to the differing ages, as well as my own pokemon being perceived as outsiders, some issues occurred, which put an end to that. After retreating, we ended up testing the compositions of samples found in the cave, from the moss, to the dirt and rocks in order to determine the ideal environment for similar fossils at a later date.

Quickly returning to the deepest section that we had explored yesterday, by the Omanyte and Omastar. Taking extra precautions when taking samples, due to some peculiar looks from some of the more dangerous pokemon. A surprising discovery was made, under closer inspection of the shellder, which seemed to have evolved teeth, the first thought coming to mind was that they ended up adapting in this way to better combat their natural predators in the form of Omastar and Omanyte, being able to more easily damage the tentacles that were used to attack them.


We shall study Relicanth and its Longevity and how it has been able to thrive without adaptation.

Formally known as the Longevity Pokemon, Relicanth has gone over approximately 100 million years without changing form, which is a good comparison to the possible reintroduction for the Fossils.

From my findings, given the shape of Relicanth’s mouth, it is clear that the pokemon once had teeth, probably atrophying due to a lack of use. I attribute this due to the other adaptations of Relicanth, being a combination of its scales, fatty body and oil-filled swim bladders allowing it to exist in higher pressure systems, like its natural environment, deep ocean habitats. Given the lack of other pokemon that live in the deep oceans, there are very little threats as well as pokemon for Relicanth to eat, so it is adapted to become what we call filter-feeders. It feeds off of microscopic organisms, of which it sucks into its toothless mouth.Given the fact that the pokemon has not adapted in over 100 million years, not faced extinction either, we can scientifically claim Relicanth is a perfect life-form.

Through the study of a close friends Relicanth, I was able to deduce the differences in this pokemon compared to the other aquatic fossils in my possession. And that would be in specialization, while most of the fossils were and now once again are strong in combat and saw to their own extinction, an example being Omastars shell becoming so strong and heavy that it crushed the pokemon. We can classify these as positive response adaptations, where the pokemons bodies seek increased strength based on their already strong characteristics. However they in most cases over adapt, to become apex predators that will cause their own extinction through over hunting or their bodies over adapt to the point that it causes significant drawbacks, such as Omastar or Aerodactyl and the many health issues the pokemon has despite its strength.


Investigating the natures of Paramon Fossils, and how their Forms will affect their Introduction

Trip into the Fourworld Cavern
-Led by Senior Ranger Uriel Valle, with assistance from support Ranger Jean-Luc, I ventured into the Golist Island’s fourworld cavern under strict supervision from Pixco. I took some samples of the different environments inside the cave for further study when in a safer place. Under close study, I was able to find some fossils, one of each of the four present inside the cavern, taking time to study the different mineralisations of the fossils.

When comparing the differing types of fossils, while similar it can be seen that the 4 distinct combinations seem to come from, as the cavern is named, four different paraspaces. However, the differing appearance of the different, seemingly similar parts, suggests that the number of species found in the cave is actually 4, not 8. As we now know that these fossils aren’t frankenstein creations, but just have unusual adaptations, all four fossils having the same rare adaptation where they easily split across distinctive lines due to their unusual shapes.

Upon close study of Miss Uriel’s Arctozolt while inside the cave, and assistance from a Ditto, taking the form of a Dracozolt, I was able to note down the significant differences between the two bird halves. And Uriel was able to offer intrinsic insights into the pokemon's abilities and differences.

We were able to find a new fossil that was not originally inside the cavern when we entered, leading to my knowledge of the fact that the four paraspaces that have converged to create this cavern didn’t occur only once. It is believed that this phenomena is ongoing but to what extent is not known. This is leading to the creation and appearance of more para fossils and other appearances inside the cavern.

Dracozolt
-Due to its small, nimble hands we can tell that Dracozolt, due to its bird half, is a natural forager, with its lack of sharp teeth, we can tell that it would generally lead to being a herbivore. From how well adapted the bird half seemed to be as a forager, I believe that it may have caused its own extinction through over consumption of its Paraspaces natural resources, or perhaps contributed to its paraspace becoming a Para-Desert. As we know that some Dracozolts have the ability of Sandrush, we can determine that some of these pokemon had attempted to adapt to the Desert location, perhaps not quick enough or finished off by another source.

Given its strong form, Dracozolt has a strong ability to generate electricity, through the use of its strong tail muscles, though I believe that this comes with a risk, that given its large size, the quantity of nutrients it will require is increased. And given the increased abilities, Dracozolt will be a more efficient forager and is likely to destabilize its environment due to over consumption of the natural resources.


Dracovish
-It’s powerful legs give Dracovish the form of an apex predator, able to chase and hunt down its prey at high speeds. However due to the combination with the fish side, Dracovish requires to be well-hydrated or can have skin irritations as well as breathing difficulties like most Fish pokemon. This pokemon is also incredibly fast, matched with its bite force of which is seemingly undeterred by high pressures underwater. Another ability from the species seems to be its spines, while it can release a red aura in order to extend those spines to trap or kill its prey.

Similar to Dracozolt, we can believe that they caused themselves to go extinct, by over hunting the food supply in the oceans of their paraspace. And like the former, some have adapted the ability Sand Rush, suggesting that some attempted to head to the beaches in order to search for further food sources.


Arctozolt
-From the sharp teeth and lack of feathers on the Arctozolts bird half, as well as the greater mass, this pokemon is more than likely fit to become an arctic scavenger due to its low aggression and its tendency to freeze its food. Through shaking its upper half, Arctozolt can generate electricity, through the conversion of kinetic energy. And due to its lower halves natural freezing aura, we have noted that the para fossil under observation can freeze the prey of which it hunts and freeze them for later consumption. Given its semi-aquatic nature, it’s both dangerous on land and in the water, allowing it to increase the variety of its diet. However given its slow movement, we believe that Arctozolt will not be too harmful, given its nature of freezing prey that it has the intrinsic nature to hibernate and not over hunt as it prepares for long freezes or times of reduced ability.

The snot that Arctozolt forms is not actually due to the pokemon being sick, but it has been found that it contains antifreeze proteins which prevent the formation of ice crystals in the pokemons stomach and in its nasal pasages.


Arctovish
-Due to Arctovish’s ability to freeze pokemon and other things that come near to itself, it's a promising hunter in theory. While this pokemon may look as if it would be ineffective due to the facing of its head, Arctovish proves to be a strong scavenger due to its ability to freeze pokemon that swim above it and then swimming up to the surface to the bobbing pokemon to eat its frozen prey.

A surprising discovery would be the pokemons water to air leaping ability, leading to the belief that Arctovish is an Omnivore, with the ability to leap so high that it could take fruit from the trees before returning to the water.


In conclusion:
-I strongly believe that these pokemon, while not unsuitable to being introduced, their inability to breed and increase their numbers may cause issues going forth. Though given the work that Pixco has done, going through this research and treating these pokemon in such a way that their initial difficulties have been corrected. That there are no longer any long term issues to the health of these Parafossils and therefore I believe they are very suitable to be introduced to our society as partners.
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