Mermaid Tails are plants composed of a single large leaf body. This body extends and lays across the ground as it metabolizes through photosynthesis. It is kept in place by a tightly coiled spring extending from its base. When threatened, this spring releases, snapping the plant to an upright position, out of harm’s way.

With this motion, creatures are either frightened or deterred from the plant. If a creature makes it on top of the plant itself, they are thrown a great distance away from the Mermaid Tail. As well as being a defensive measure, this motion also flings pollen from the white floral tips of the plant, helping to propagate the species.