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{{Era|HW|FOR|H1|TF|FS|H2|GOO|H3}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Covenant Species Infobox
{{New content}}
{{Center|For the Lekgolo colony commonly known as the Hunter, see [[Mgalekgolo]].}}
{{Species infobox
|name=Lekgolo
|name=Lekgolo
|image=[[Image:BestiarumHunter.jpg]]
|image=[[File:H2A Terminals - Pile o' Worms.jpg|300px]]
|latin=
|classification=
|subspecies=
|diet=
|height-title=Avg. length
|height=134–155 cm (52.8–61 in)<ref name="waypointarticle">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/lekgolo-mgalekgolo-hunter '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Lekgolo/Mgalekgolo'']</ref>
|weight=5.6-30.7 kg (12.4-67.7 lbs){{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}}
|distinctions=Small worm-like creatures that unify into single entities called "subsistence gestalts"
|lifespan=
|homeworld=[[Te]]
|homeworld=[[Te]]
|height=9'6"-12' (Hunter Mgalekgolo); 1.4 meters (individual Lekgolo worm)<ref>[[Bestiarum]]</ref>
|techlevel=Native Tier 3/Adopted Tier 2{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}}
|skincolor=Orange-red
|notable-person=
|distinctions=small worm-like creatures that unify in a single entity called a Mgalekgolo.
|othernames=
|equipment=Lekgolo armor, [[Fuel Rod Gun]] or a modified [[Fuel Rod Cannon]]
|languages=
|types=Combat
|affiliation=[[Covenant]], [[Covenant Separatists]]
|notable=*[[Igido Nosa Hurru]]<br />
*[[Ogada Nosa Fasu]]
|othernames=*Hunter
*Can of Worms
*Cow
*Ogre
}}
}}


The '''Lekgolo'''<ref>[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]], page 190 - "Lekgolo: the Elite name for the Hunter race".</ref> (Latin ''Ophis congregatio''<ref>[[Bestiarum]]</ref>) are a species of small colonial worm like creatures that can join together to form purpose specific assemblages called Mgalekgolo. They are commonly referred to by [[Humans]] as '''Hunters'''. Lekgolo take a hulking bipedal form in the Covenant military which is, in truth, the least common assemblage of the creatures.<ref>[[Bestiarum]]</ref> In this form, they are the strongest<ref>[[Halo 3 Game Guide]],  http://www.microsoft.com/silverlight/halo3.aspx, On Covenant character page.</ref> species in the [[Covenant]]. This form stand anywhere from nine and a half to twelve feet tall, but when in their combat state they crouch to approximately eight feet, making their weak spots smaller. Hunters fight with [[Fuel Rod Gun]]s ([[Halo: Combat Evolved]]) or modified [[Fuel Rod Cannon]]s ([[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]]) integrated directly into their armor, and they carry an enormous and nearly-impervious metal shield made of an unknown alloy, which they sometimes use as a [[melee]] [[weapon]]. The modified Fuel Rod Cannon used in Halo 2 is more beam-like, similar to that of the [[Gravity Cannon]]. The fire is more sustained, and more devastating.
The '''Lekgolo'''<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', ''page 190'' - "Lekgolo: the Elite name for the Hunter race".</ref> are a species of small colonial worm-like creatures that can join together to form purpose specific assemblages, known as subsistence gestalts. Each Lekgolo is an individual organism, about 1.4 meters long, with its own central nervous system. Lekgolo are also able to arrange themselves within machinery and use their combined intelligence to pilot or control it.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=13160 Bungie Weekly Update 01/11/08]</ref>


According to Halo 2 the Hunters needed to be "tamed." An [[Arbiter]] played a significant role in this event.
One of the most successful and culturally enigmatic gestalt intelligences in the [[Orion Arm]] of the [[Milky Way]] galaxy,{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} the Lekgolo became the first species to be annexed into the [[Covenant]] in [[784 BCE]].{{Ref/Reuse|ENC 114}}


During the [[Civil War of the Covenant]], most of the Hunters took the side of the [[Elites]].
==History==
The Lekgolo first evolved on one of the moons of the gas giant, [[Te]], and thrived by feeding off the rich metal deposits in its crust. The [[Forerunner]]s cataloged the Lekgolo in their time, albeit in considerably different assemblages than the ones that would be encountered later on.<ref name="bestiarum">'''[[Bestiarum]]'''</ref> Lekgolo specimens of the [[Thanolekgolo]] configuration were to be used in a failed plan undertaken by the Forerunners to defeat the [[Flood]].<ref name="Have S'moa">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-have-s-moa '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder: 2-20-15'']</ref> A number of these specimens were ultimately buried under the surface of [[Installation 04]] by the Forerunners for unknown reasons.<ref name="recon">'''[[Halo: Nightfall: RECON-14]]'''</ref> They survived the firing of the Array and continued to reproduce and exist as a population for many thousands of years.


== Culture ==
Since their combined forms could potentially be highly intelligent, the Lekgolo were able to develop [[Technological Achievement Tiers|Tier 3]] technology on their own, though their space travel capabilities remained highly limited due to the high gravity of their homeworld.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} At some point following the firing of the Halo Array and their [[Conservation Measure|reintroduction]] to the moons of [[Te]], a number of Lekgolo colonies settled in Forerunner installations orbiting the gas giant. These colonies developed distinct appetites; while many consumed the Forerunner structures themselves for food, others ate anything except Forerunner materials. After several millennia, the Forerunner constructs were almost completely broken down, with the debris forming rings in the planet's orbit.<ref name="ch">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''pages 269-271''</ref>
The Lekgolo's religious, political and philosophical affiliation with the Covenant was based on their need for viable space travel and see little need for religion. When their homeworld of [[Te]] was visited by an advanced alien culture who were intent on mining the world, they faced heavy resistance from the Hunters whose physiology gave them a tremendous advantage in combat. [http://imagewtf.com/654/free-image-hosting/] Hunters were later forced into the Covenant by the superior starship technology of the Elites - on the ground they were mostly, if not always, victorious. Faced with extinction by orbital bombardment, they joined the Covenant. It is assumed that this is when an Arbiter was killed, that this was the time of the [[Taming of the Hunters]]. Terms for the Hunters induction into the Covenant were eventually met despite communication difficulties which hampered the process. As part of joining their conquerors, the Covenant would use local labor and expertise to mine resources from rare metals to minerals. In exchange for this, the Hunters were given free access to the Covenant's spaceways.


Hunters almost never associate, or even communicate, with other Covenant client races, save for the Elites. They are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant to the "lesser" Covenant races, and are utterly contemptuous of their foes.
===Contact with the Covenant===
{{Main|Taming of the Lekgolo}}
{{Quote|Our first encounter with the Lekgolo was an effort in futility. The blasphemous creatures had devoured a Forerunner orbital, shattering its remains into a trillion pieces.|[[Unidentified San'Shyuum scribe|A San'Shyuum Covenant scribe recalls the Taming of the Lekgolo]].}}
The Lekgolo first came into contact with the [[Covenant]] when the alien order arrived at [[Te]] in search of Forerunner artifacts in [[789 BCE]].{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} It discovered that the rings of Te were in fact the remains of a Forerunner orbital construct and soon realized the Lekgolo were responsible for destroying it. The [[San'Shyuum]] viewed this as heresy, and declared war on the Lekgolo in what would later be called the [[Taming of the Lekgolo]].{{Ref/Reuse|ch}} [[Covenant fleet]] commanders soon found that indiscriminate destruction would have unacceptable consequences: since the Lekgolo largely lived in and among sacred relics that the Sangheili were trying to preserve, simply annihilating the Lekgolo would have resulted in the destruction of those relics.{{Ref/Reuse|ch}}


[[Image:Hunter1.jpg|thumb|left|A Hunter defends a [[Covenant]] outpost on [[Installation 04|Alpha Halo]].]]
Likewise, carrying out a ground campaign against the Lekgolo proved difficult, as the Lekgolo were able to combine into powerful collectives, most notably the [[Mgalekgolo]];{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} consequently, the Lekgolo won most, if not all, ground engagements.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} The Covenant's forces were completely overwhelmed by the sheer size, ferocity and teamwork of their foes.{{Ref/Reuse|ch}} As a result, [[Jeht 'Lcmutee]], the [[Arbiter]] who was created during this crisis, suggested that they could be "tamed" and put to better uses as part of the Covenant. The San'Shyuum eventually agreed and decided to forge a pact with the Lekgolo, allowing them to join the Covenant despite their offenses against "sacred" Forerunner artifacts.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}}{{Ref/Reuse|ch}}
Hunters have three names: personal name, bond name, and line name. The personal name is given at birth. The line name represents the genetic heritage, being the name of the most successful Hunter of his ancestors. If a Hunter reaches a certain level of status, his offspring will have his personal name as their line name. The bond name is taken between bonded pairs, a relationship about which little is known, but it appears to be something like a lifelong brother, and a Hunter that has lost its partner can and will become extremely aggressive. Bonded Hunters consider themselves brothers and are fiercely protective of each other. Examples of Hunter names include [[Igido Nosa Hurru]], and [[Ogada Nosa Fasu]].


Hunters seem to be a warring species, though some are known to recite poetry and meditate in their spare time.<ref name="Tano">[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]], page 190</ref>
===Service in the Covenant===
Despite initial difficulties at contact due to the Lekgolo's alien methods of communication,{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} the Covenant incorporated the Lekgolo into their ranks in [[784 BCE]].<ref name="ENC 114">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 114''</ref> The Mgalekgolo gestalts, armed with thick armor plates and [[assault cannon]]s, would come to serve the Covenant as shock troops. Even larger Lekgolo colony assemblages were weaponized as Covenant assault platforms, [[Deutoros-pattern Scarab|Scarab]] and the [[Za'zayara-pattern Harvester|Harvester]], the latter of which is operated by a meta-colony referred to as a [[Sbaolekgolo]].<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]'''</ref> Individual Lekgolo worms, specifically conditioned not to ingest Forerunner alloys, were employed by the [[Asceticism|ascetic priests]] studying the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in ''[[High Charity]]''.{{Ref/Reuse|ch}} A number of these Lekgolo stopped [[Mendicant Bias]] from taking off in the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] by short circuiting the ship's systems, themselves dying in the process.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 276''</ref>


Hunters are never seen alone, and are very dangerous as they work and live in pairs.
===Post-Covenant===
During the [[Great Schism]], the species was divided between those that remained loyal to the Covenant, led by the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]], and those that supported and sided with the [[Sangheili]] at the time. During the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|further conflicts]] in the wake of the [[Human-Covenant War]], the Lekgolo largely stayed with the Sangheili they had served prior to the Great Schism. A number of these colonies would side with the [[Swords of Sanghelios]], and many would end up fighting alongside the UNSC on occasion.<ref>'''[[Halo: New Blood]]''', ''Chapter 16''</ref> However, many would fight on behalf of other [[Covenant remnants]], including [[Jul 'Mdama]]'s [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|new Covenant]], [[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]], and the [[Banished]].{{Ref/Game|H4}}


During the Covenant Civil War, most Hunter pairs sided with the Elite Separatists. No reason for this is yet confirmed, but it is likely due to their deep respect for the Elites, or possibly because the [[Brutes]] struck the Hunters first, betraying them. It is unknown if they will follow the Elites into an alliance with the UNSC, since only the Elites are mentioned as being allied with [[humanity]] in [[Halo 3]]. But given their reverence for the Sangheili, it is likely that some will remain at their side to stand against the rest of the Covenant, possibly alongside the humans. However, the Halo 3 trailer at E3 2007 featured a clip of two hunters firing their fuel rod cannons and in turn being shot by something that resembled a human rocket or possibly a [[Brute Shot]] from offscreen, which confirmed the possibility of at least some Hunters remaining as enemies. In the September 2007 issue of EGM, it was stated that there is one part of the level [[The Storm (Level)|The Storm,]] where Hunters fight alongside a Brute Chieftain.<ref>EGM #219, pg. 64</ref> Given these facts, it is possible that the Hunters have divided loyalties to the Prophets and their religion and to the Elites. It has been noted in the Halo 3 Manual that the Hunters' political motivation is unknown. In [[Halo: Uprising]] a number of Hunter pairs are shown both fighting the Master Chief in space and patrolling the city, reinforcing the fact that some Hunters are still with the Covenant. Also, in the Diorama commercial and 3-d tour on [[halo3.com]], a hunter pair is clearly seen taking on a marine fireteam. This is supported by the fact that the information supplied above the hunter still lists it as an enemy combatant.
After the destruction of [[Installation 04]], feral [[Thanolekgolo]] swarms that had been sealed beneath the ring's surface by the Forerunners were able to break free in certain sections of the ring, namely [[Alpha Shard]], a fragment propelled through slipspace into a close orbit around a red giant. Because of their extremophilic nature and ability to burrow underground, the Lekgolo were able to survive on the fragment for years despite the extreme daytime temperatures.{{Ref/Reuse|recon}} These Lekgolo were highly aggressive, and significantly faster and more agile than their more commonly-encountered brethren.<ref name="hnf2">'''Halo: Nightfall''', ''Chapter 2''</ref> During a joint [[ONI]]-[[Sedran Colonial Guard]] [[Mission to Alpha Shard|expedition to Alpha Shard]], these Lekgolo swarms hunted and consumed almost the entire group, leaving only two survivors. They were killed when Colonel [[Randall Aiken]] detonated a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]] to destroy the shard's deposits of a new element fatal to humans.{{Ref/Reuse|hnf2}}
[[Image:Standard_Hunter.png|thumb|right|A Hunter fires its Fuel Rod Beam]]During the Battle on Onyx the Hunters have command of lower ranking Elites.


In a Bungie Weekly Update, [[Frank O'Connor]] said: "Hunter society is complex and we have seen but the tiniest fraction of it. There are some fundamental facts about Hunter biology that mean the combat type is just the tip of the iceberg."<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?story=updatefeb03</ref> This means, or at least implies, that there are other kinds of Hunters that simply have yet to be seen.
==Biology==
===Anatomy and physiology===
[[File:Halo Nightfall Lekgolo swarm.jpg|thumb|250px|A swarm of Lekgolo overwhelming a [[D81-LRT Condor]].]]
The Lekgolo are characterized by their ability to form bonds with one another both physically and neurologically to form gestalt colonies with a singular personality; these communities, rather than individual Lekgolo eels, are considered the closest thing to a sapient Lekgolo "individual" that can be named.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 267''</ref> Lekgolo are relatively unintelligent at the most basic level, but can form complex thoughts and emerge as a conscious individual when they combine into larger masses that communicate through chemical and electrical means. A colony's level of intelligence is generally dependent on the amount of neural mass present,{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} and can be scaled upward to a certain extent for increased intelligence. The neural net that Lekgolo colonies develop enables them to be incredibly strong and very sensitive to their surroundings.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} These gestalts are capable of manifesting in several different forms according to what goal they are striving to achieve and the amount of Lekgolo worms that are present. The Covenant was aware of six different forms of Lekgolo colonies: [[Dipholekgolo]], [[Mgalekgolo]], [[Rhulolekgolo]], [[Sbaolekgolo]], [[Khantolekgolo]], and [[Thanolekgolo]]. Each of these gestalts differs in size, mass, and complexity.{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} Because of the nature of the Lekgolo's compound intelligence and consciousness, they cannot be easily assimilated by the [[Flood]], for while each individual worm may have its own central nervous system, the subsistence gestalts do not, and co-opted worms were never able to be used by the Flood to form the gestalts they would otherwise have. The Flood can still certainly use Lekgolo for their biomass, however.<ref>'''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe''', ''Wages of Sin'': ''page 301''</ref>


== Hunter Anatomy and Physiology ==
The Lekgolo are [[xenobiology|xenobiologically]] classified as a "subsistence gestalt", defined as an alien gestalt community with the ability to survive in extreme conditions, including the vacuum of space, for months or even years with barely any to no outside resources. As such, they were able to survive in Te's orbital rings for vast periods of time.{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} However, Lekgolo are still unable to withstand rapid depressurization.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 218''</ref> Lekgolo [[blood]] is a luminescent orange and smells like burnt plastic.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 221''</ref> This may be a result of a large iron content, seeing as metals are a fundamental part of Lekgolo diets.
The Hunter is not a singular organism, but rather a hive creature composed of multiple small, orange, worm-like beings that form a singular collective consciousness and act as one, like a Portuguese Man O' War. The extremely strong armor that covers them serves the dual purpose of protecting the eels and keeping them together.<ref name="Tano"/> Hunters also have very sharp, long spines made of the same worms that compose their body. Hunters have been known to impale careless [[Marines]] upon these spines when surrounded. However, in-game the spines serve no purpose besides decoration. The white streak on the Hunter's "head" is actually a visor or sensor screen.


The collection of worms that make up a Hunter's body are unintelligent at the most basic level, but can form complex thoughts and emerge as a conscious individual when they combine into larger masses that communicate through chemical and electrical means. Their society is predominated by this combination of being to create exponentially more intelligent creatures, and the actual "Hunter" organism is one of the rarer and smaller forms to be found, used primarily in interaction with the Covenant hierarchy. The worms that make up a "Hunter" only have one eye per worm. The Worms that make up the arms and legs have the eyes located within the central thorax armor. The neural net that hunters develop enables them to be incredibly strong and sensitive to all things within a 1000 foot line pointing out from non-combat form, and a half sphere that extends 500 feet in combat form.
===Reproduction and life cycle===
Subsistence gestalts arise from the aggregation of many individual Lekgolo. Distinct Mgalekgolo specifically form from a single large colony splitting in two, with their dorsal spikes containing the remnants of the last connections between the two parts of the colony.
It takes 1 to 2 weeks for the Lekgolo to reproduce offspring.


[[Image:Huntercrouched.jpg|thumb|left|A Hunter with its spines flexed as it gets into an attack position.]]
==Culture==
The Hunter's physiology, being separated into many singular components, makes it immune to [[Flood]] infection, as no central nervous system or calcium stores exist for them to utilize, and single worms are too small to be used as the Flood's tool. Though Hunters are immune from assimilation into the Flood collective, the parasitic race will attack them on sight because their bodies are still viable as food. Many believe that the [[Flood Juggernaut]] is an infected Hunter, but this is false due to several reasons.
[[File:Hunter 3.jpg|thumb|250px|A Mgalekgolo fighting in a Forerunner structure on [[Installation 00]].]]
Little information exists on the internal workings of Lekgolo society, and their political and intellectual structures have been subject to many theories.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} Most of the information on the Lekgolo is based solely on the Mgalekgolo, which provides only a small hint at the species in its entirety.{{Ref/Reuse|waypointarticle}} The Lekgolo almost never associate or even communicate with the other races in the [[Covenant]]. Sangheili are the sole exception; the Mgalekgolo appreciate and acknowledge the Sangheili warriors' thoughts and adeptness in combat. To the other races of the Covenant, however, the Mgalekgolo are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant, and they are utterly contemptuous of their foes.{{Ref/Reuse|CovenantPrimer}} Mgalekgolo have no qualms about committing friendly fire against the "lesser" races, like [[Unggoy]] and [[Kig-Yar]]; during the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]], a Hunter was seen running over and killing an unaware Kig-Yar.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 222''</ref> In battle, Mgalekgolo will attack foes regardless of any allies that happen to be in their line of fire.<ref name="ODST">'''Halo 3: ODST'''</ref>


Human weapons cannot actually 'kill' a Hunter, merely paralyze it. The bullets that get under the armor penetrate the neural connection core, thus paralyzing total focus movement with the consciousness and causing a loss of connections between the individual entities. The 'dead' Hunter will split into a dozen worms that will re-form with all its memories and personality intact. They will re-form within a hundred feet of their armor, as it generally is in the same position as where they died.
Many members of the Covenant are mystified and confused by the Lekgolo; their way of life is almost as alien to the Covenant as that of the [[Flood]]. A Sangheili [[Fleet Master]] once noted that Mgalekgolo were known to tear opponents apart with their "bare hands" whilst in a blood frenzy, and then suddenly pause to recite war poetry. It has also been said that Mgalekgolo meditate in their spare time, or before battle.{{Ref/Reuse|p190+1}}


The only sure way to kill a hunter is to unload a clip from needlers into it, or to overcharge a plasma pistol. This causes deadly shards of crystal to form in it's body, thus killing all of its entities. An overcharged shot would burn away most of the worms, killing it as well. A rocket launcher would really kill it too, as the shockwave would shatter its body.
===Role within the Covenant===
The most commonly seen variety of Lekgolo are the [[Mgalekgolo]], hulking bipedal forms used for service within the Covenant military.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} In this form, they are the strongest and most resilient combatants in the Covenant.<ref>'''Halo 3 Instruction Manual'''</ref> Much larger bipedal Lekgolo assemblages that could easily be measured in stories have also been observed, but they are uncommon within the Covenant; the largest known Lekgolo forms reside within the armored shells of Covenant [[Scarab]] and [[Za'zayara-pattern Harvester|Harvester]] walkers, the latter being known as a [[Sbaolekgolo]].<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 130''</ref> The so-called "[[Slugmen]]" were a "pruned" form of Lekgolo gestalt used by the Covenant as scout-[[sniper]]s in a similar capacity to the [[Kig-Yar]]. However, they were exceptionally rarely encountered within the empire even at its height, and most information about the Slugmen has since been lost with the [[Fall of High Charity]].{{Ref/Site|Id=CFDigsite|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-digsite-dissection|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Digsite Dissection|D=28|M=07|Y=2023}}


Hunters generally growl during battle but will sometimes talk and make remarks like the other Covenant species. Instead of using vocal chords, they vibrate their bodies to make a low rumble that is described as "more felt than heard" to produce speech.<ref>[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]], pages 190/191</ref>
The Lekgolo were the most plentiful members of the Covenant, numbering in the trillions.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}}


It is theorized that Hunters reproduce asexually; however, there is, as yet, no way to be certain. Although new information suggests that the Hunters can generate a worm, and then a worm from a large number of other hunters is needed to make a hunter.
===Religion and spirituality===
Lekgolo religious beliefs are poorly understood, though it has been noted that their society in itself has little need for religion.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} While the Lekgolo joined the Covenant for its access to space trade routes and starships,{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}} rather than any real dedication to the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]], at least some hold a concept of an afterlife.<ref name="Halo: The Flood">'''Halo: The Flood''', ''"Chapter ??"'', ''page ??''</ref> Many Lekgolo colonies meditate in their spare time, or recite war poetry before or after battle, showing a more refined nature than would be believed of the hulking, savage warriors.{{Ref/Reuse|p190+1}} Mgalekgolo have also shown to possess a concept of honor.{{Ref/Reuse|Halo: The Flood}} The fact that some Mgalekgolo allied themselves with the Sangheili during the Great Schism, while others remained with the original Covenant body,<ref name="Halo 3">'''Halo 3'''</ref> is evidence that individual beliefs play a major part in whatever religion or philosophy the Lekgolo possess. Anything further than this is speculation, as Lekgolo culture is extremely reclusive. Even their fellow Covenant know little about them other than that they continue to follow their own cultural traditions, rather than the homogenized religion of the wider Covenant.{{Ref/Reuse|bestiarum}}<ref name="CovenantPrimer">[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=697 '''Bungie.net''': ''The Covenant Primer'']</ref>


The Hunters' gauntlets have three fingers, each bearing a sharp claw. It is said they can grab the players in Halo 3 with their claws. It appears that they wear their distinctive arm shield by inserting their hand into a built-in gauntlet.  Similarly, their Fuel Rod Cannon has a large hand slot, enabling the weapon to be attached securely to the arm.
===Languages===
Little is known about the Lekgolo language. The known names of some Mgalekgolo seem to imply that they use very simple vowels, and few consonants—not nearly as many as are contained in the [[English]] alphabet. It is known that Mgalekgolo do not use vocal chords to speak; they are, however, capable of mimicking the language of other species via subsonic vibrations of the Lekgolo in their bodies, forming words and sentences that are "felt rather than heard".<ref name="p190+1">'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''pages 190-191''</ref><ref name="field guide">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo 3: ODST'' Field Guide]</ref> Their quiet nature amongst other races of the Covenant results either from difficulty speaking with other Covenant races or difficulty tolerating other Covenant races.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 277''</ref> For inter-species communications, Mgalekgolo are capable of speaking at least the Sangheili language,<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 198''</ref> and are not known to interact with any other sapient species. Individual Lekgolo also occasionally make vaguely insectile clicking and chittering noises.{{Ref/Reuse|hnf2}}


== Combat ==
Mgalekgolo tend to make very deep, low rumbling noises when detecting enemies or when wounded. When dying, they occasionally emit a low-pitched scream. They also seem to chuckle after a kill. When angered, Mgalekgolo are also capable of releasing a loud, echoing roar.<ref>'''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''', ''Part 5''</ref> Aside from that, Mgalekgolo barely talk.
[[Image:Lekgolo.jpg||thumb|right|A Hunter engaging an enemy.]]
A Hunter's armor is extremely resilient, and is immune to most small arms fire. However, they do have an exploitable weak spot: the exposed orange flesh located in their midsections and necks. While they keep the exposed areas on the fronts of their bodies well-covered with their shields, rarely giving the player an opening unless the Hunter tries to melee them, the creature's backs have a large exposed area that is extremely vulnerable. However, though firearms are incapable of penetrating a Hunter's armor, it cannot stand up to heavy weapons such as rockets and artillery.


In Halo: Combat Evolved, Hunters were rarely difficult to defeat; their [[AI]] was simplistic, their shots and melees were slow and awkward, and they could not move fast enough to run down even a back-pedaling Spartan. Furthermore, they could be killed by a single shot from the [[M6D Magnum Sidearm|M6D Pistol]], as long as it hit the exposed orange area in the middle of the body or the similarly unarmored "neck." Other weapons, especially the [[shotgun]] and [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle|sniper rifle]] for very short and very long distances, respectively, were equally deadly. The rocket launcher was always effective, but never particularly necessary. Grenades were only moderately effective, as the Hunter could withstand a half-dozen grenade blasts. [[Plasma]] weapons were often ineffective, as was the [[Needler]], and the [[MA5B Assault Rifle]] took so long to make a kill that other weapons were far more useful. Still, no player with even a modicum of skill feared confronting a Hunter on open ground. On [[Legendary]], some players regarded Hunters as the least challenging enemies in the game. However, inexperienced or careless players can fall victim to the Hunters' attacks, which, while easy to anticipate, are rather powerful.
===Naming conventions===
[[Image:Hunter4.jpg|thumb|left|[[SPARTAN-II Program|Spartan-IIs]] about to exploit the Hunter's weak spot: their unprotected backs.]]
{{Expand-section}}
However, Hunters really gained the upper hand in the cramped hallways of the [[Truth and Reconciliation]] and the [[The Maw|''Pillar of Autumn'']], where there was little space to dodge the fuel rods or crushing melee blows, and no room to utilize the most commonly used anti-Hunter weapon: the [[rocket launcher]]. Still, these levels were full of shotgun ammo, and the shotgun is reasonably useful against Hunters at close range.


If you stood far away from the Hunter, it would use its fuel rod cannon. However, the shot was slow, and very easy to dodge if you could see it coming. It was also easy to anticipate, as the barrel of the weapon glowed bright green before firing. If you were in melee range of the Hunter, it would also use its arm shield in an attempt to crush you, resulting in serious injury, if not death. However, these attacks were simple to anticipate and dodge. On certain levels, it is possible to defeat Hunters by standing in front of a hole and then sidestepping them as they attempt a melee attack; if timed right, the Hunter will fall down the hole and die.
==Homeworld==
[[Image:Dgodt Visr Foltz.PNG|thumb|right|A Hunter on [[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]].]]
{{Main|Te}}
The Hunters have undergone a number of changes for Halo 2. While they appear in fewer numbers, they are tougher and more dangerous. The most notable change is their new weapon: although similar to the old Fuel Rod Gun, the new Fuel Rod Cannon fires a continuous beam of green plasma rather than an arcing projectile. This new weapon is more damaging if not dodged carefully. In addition, the Hunters are over 25% larger<ref>''The Art of Halo: Creating a Virtual World''</ref> and faster, making combat against them much more hectic. Fortunately, all these go towards your advantage when playing the Arbiter; the Hunters are then powerful and durable allies. They have gained a new move, too: the ability to attack an enemy behind them. This effectively makes the old strategy of "dodge-and-fire" far less effective.  
Lekgolo originated from the rings of Te which formed after the worms demolished a Forerunner orbital. The rings and the planet's moons were home to approximately 1.98 trillion Lekgolo worms. Te is orbited by 25 moons, including [[Rantu]] and [[Uhtua]]. The planet has a high gravity and an atmosphere primarily composed of [[Wikipedia:Nitrogen|nitrogen]], [[helium]], and [[methane]].


Finally, the Hunters have much more health. Most small arms do rather moderate damage against them, in contrast to the M6D's ability to kill them in a single shot. For example, on Normal difficulty, it takes 13 shots from the [[M6C Magnum Sidearm]], 6 full bursts from the [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]], or 10 shots from the [[Covenant Carbine]] to kill a Hunter. On [[Heroic]] and lower difficulties, sniper weapons will kill a Hunter in a single shot. However, on Legendary, not a single weapon (except, of course, the [[Scarab Gun]], which is never present during a fight with Hunters anyway) can kill them in one hit. Even a [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]] or [[Beam Rifle]] will take two shots to kill a Hunter on Legendary.  Often, the most effective weapon against them is the one that does the most damage: the Rocket Launcher is greatly effective, as is the Fuel Rod Cannon. While these weapons take two and three shots respectively to kill a Hunter on Legendary, they can damage one regardless of where it hits it.
==Technology==
 
{{Expand-section}}
Grenades still do little damage against Hunters, and it will usually take a large amount of them to take one down. However, grenades, handheld or fired from the Brute Shot, will disorient a Hunter, giving the player an opportunity to shoot at its exposed flesh. Perhaps the most effective method to defeat a Hunter would be to stick a plasma grenade to it and shoot it in its exposed back with a beam rifle or sniper rifle.
 
Hunters are equipped with an extremely devastating Fuel Rod Cannon melded into its arm. Unlike a normal Fuel Rod Cannon, Hunters with their cumbersome bulk and strength are able to withstand the recoil and produce a more lasting and lethal blast. If an enemy gets too close, the Hunter will attempt a clumsy but dangerous melee attack with its shield, severely injuring if not killing the enemy. Once its partner is killed, the Hunter becomes much more aggressive and will chase the player, attempting to avenge its partner's death by only melee attacks.
 
Hunters in Halo 3 became still more powerful. Even on Heroic difficulty, at least five shots from a sniper weapon are required to down a Hunter. In addition, their previously vulnerable stomachs are now covered with armor, quashing any chance at getting a shot in when the Hunter rears up to melee. On the other hand, their armor can now fall off in pieces (a feature best exploited with explosives) and their Fuel Rod Beams seem to do slightly less damage. In addition to blowing off a chunk of its armor, grenades also appear to overall do more damage to the Hunter than they do in the previous games. If you want some entertainment, it is possible to melee a hunter if it is stricken in its weak spots. This is difficult because you have to get behind them, but is possible. In short, defeating Halo 3's Hunters requires a large amount of patience above all else.


== Trivia ==
== Trivia ==
[[Image:Hunter5.jpg|thumb|right|A Hunter emerging from the ''[[Pillar of Autumn|Pillar of Autumn's]]'' cafeteria.]]
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes}}
*"Lekgolo" is [[wikipedia:Tswana language|Tswana]] for "one hundred", probably a reference to their hive-like physiology.
*"Lekgolo" is [[wikipedia:Tswana language|Tswana]] for "one hundred", probably a reference to their hive-like physiology.
*Hunters were first seen by humans in [[2537]] in [[Operation: PROMETHEUS]].
*The Lekgolo share many similarities with the alien species known as "Brothers" from the 1992 novel ''[[Wikipedia:Anvil of Stars|Anvil of Stars]]'' by [[Greg Bear]], who coincidentally later wrote the ''[[Forerunner Saga]]''. Both are eel-like creatures which are non-sapient by themselves, but can join together to form intelligent gestalt assemblages with their own individual identities.
*Hunters are responsible for security aboard a Covenant Warship. One of their duties is to protect the vessel's Ship Master, and, failing that, enact revenge on his assassin.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', page 190</ref>
*A species of caterpillar native to the Amazon rainforest exhibits behavior considerably similar to the Lekgolo. They gather into large gestalt formations which act and move in perfect unison for increased speed and efficiency.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbFMkXTMucA '''YouTube''': ''A STRANGE but GENIUS Caterpillar Speed Trick - Smarter Every Day 93'']</ref>
*In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], if you look closely at a Hunter the orange fleshy parts glow in an on and off motion. This can be seen more easily in a dark place.
*In ''Halo 3'', Scarabs are controlled by the Lekgolo, proven by the fact that they appear around the reactor of the [[vehicle]]. They also make up the joints of the legs of the Scarab.
*Lekgolo blood smells like burnt plastic.<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'', page 221</ref>
*Upon shooting a Hunter in ''Halo 3'', a Lekgolo worm will fly out of the main colony, wriggle, squirm, and then disappear, as if it is going underground; the Lekgolo probably vanish due to technical reasons in order to avoid framerate problems.
*It is a common mistake to think that Flood infected Hunters become [[Flood Juggernaut]]s, but due to their physiology, that is impossible.
*On the ''Halo 3'' multiplayer map [[Assembly]], an "aquarium" filled with Lekgolo waiting to be integrated into a Scarab can be seen.
*In Halo 2 when a Hunter sees you for the first time it will flex its spines.
*In Halo 2, a Hunter will hit faster and harder if its partner is killed.
*In Halo 2 level, [[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]], if you walk into the [[fuel rod cannon]] of the Hunters, you can see their fingers in the gun. They also have fingers on the arm behind the shield.
*In Halo: Combat Evolved when firing into the orange flesh of a Hunter, both Hunter and Flood blood comes out.
*In [[Halo 3]], like the [[Grunts (Unggoy)|Grunts]], the Hunters will fight for both sides of the Covenant, though the allied Hunters do not appear in the game.  
*It shares its name with a Pfhor enemy in [[Marathon]] which also has a very similar weapon and appearance.
*In Halo: The Flood, it mentions that Hunters have skin and a spine. This was later retconned by the revelation they were a compound of worm like entities.
*In Halo: Combat Evolved on the Maw (only on Normal or higher), the Hunters that run out of the cafe room will occasionally have gray stomachs and grayed armor on their back and spines. And looks as either it's been chipped or burned. It is to us unknown if this is just a texturing glitch, a model mix up like the "councilor Honor guard" at the end of [[Gravemind (level)]], or to show that the Hunters have been in combat for a long time.
 
== See Also ==
*[[Taming of the Hunters]]
*[[Fuel Rod Cannon]]
 
== Sources ==


<references />
==Gallery==
{{Clear}}
<gallery>
File:Halo3-LekgoloDetail.jpg|A group of Lekgolo in a Scarab.
File:1203558250 Hunter.jpg|A Hunter, one form of gestalt formed by Lekgolo.
File:ScarabH3.png|A {{Pattern|Deutoros|Scarab}} controlled by a colony of Rhulolekgolo.
File:Halo3-HunterBack.jpg|Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3 Scarab Lekgolo.jpg|Lekgolo found in the core of a Scarab.
File:Hunter blood.jpg|Lekgolo blood. Note the luminous properties.
File:HLHunters.png|A larger form of Hunter in ''[[The Duel]]''.
File:Mgalekgolo_back.jpg|Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:FUD-Lekgolo.jpg|An individual Lekgolo worm in ''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''.
File:Halo Nightfall Lekgolo worm.jpg|An individual Lekgolo worm in ''[[Halo: Nightfall]]''.
File:Halo Nightfall - Lekgolo devouring horses.jpg|A swarm of Thanolekgolo devour two horses on [[Alpha Shard]] in ''Halo: Nightfall''.
File:H2A Terminals - Lekgolo.jpg|An individual Lekgolo worm from the ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]] [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - First Hunters.jpg|Lekgolo coalescing into Mgalekgolo to battle an Arbiter.
File:H2A-Lekgolo.png|Lekgolo in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H5G-Hunterforming.png|Lekgolo forming a Mgalekgolo to combat [[Blue Team]] in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:ImageIZE57D7X.png|Lekgolo forming into Mgalekgolo during the [[Battle of Sunaion]] in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-AssaultcannonLekgolo.png|Lekgolo in an assault cannon.
File:HW2 - Living Barrier.jpg|Lekgolo in [[Banished caltrop]]s during the [[Battle of Installation 00]] in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
File:HW2-Caltrop.png|A Lekgolo filled caltrop near an [[Banished outpost]].
File:HW2-Caltrops.png|Lekgolo filled caltrops on Installation 00.
File:HW2-VehicleSymbiote.jpg|Lekgolo improving Banished vehicles.
File:HINF DamagedHunter.png||Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in ''Halo Infinite''.
File:HTV-Lekgolo.png|Lekgolo constricting UNSC personnel in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.
</gallery>


{{covenant}}
==List of appearances==
{{Clear}}
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
*''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
*''[[Halo: Nightfall]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]''
*''[[Halo: Smoke and Shadow]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Envoy]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Recruit]]'' {{C|Non-canonical appearance}}
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Battle Born]]''
*''[[Halo: Renegades]]''
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo: Point of Light]]'' {{Im}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Contact]]''
**''[[Emergence]]''
**''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]''
**''[[Allegiance]]''
*''[[Halo: Age of Retribution]]'' {{Mo}}
{{Col-end}}


==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}


[[Category:The Covenant]]
{{Navbox/Species}}


[[Category:Covenant Species]]
[[Category:Lekgolo| ]]
[[Category:Sapient species]]
[[Category:Covenant species]]

Latest revision as of 12:32, November 8, 2024

"WE'VE GOT A NEW CONTACT, UNKNOWN CLASSIFICATION!"
This article may contain information based upon upcoming, unreleased, or recently-released content, and may not be fully complete. Additionally, the information may be subject to change if it is based on pre-release material. Please update it as soon as any relevant and accurate material is available.
For the Lekgolo colony commonly known as the Hunter, see Mgalekgolo.
Lekgolo
H2A Terminals - Pile o' Worms.jpg
Physical information

Avg. length:

134–155 cm (52.8–61 in)[1]

Avg. weight:

5.6-30.7 kg (12.4-67.7 lbs)[1]

Distinctions:

Small worm-like creatures that unify into single entities called "subsistence gestalts"

Sociocultural information

Homeworld:

Te

Technology level:

Native Tier 3/Adopted Tier 2[2]

 

The Lekgolo[3] are a species of small colonial worm-like creatures that can join together to form purpose specific assemblages, known as subsistence gestalts. Each Lekgolo is an individual organism, about 1.4 meters long, with its own central nervous system. Lekgolo are also able to arrange themselves within machinery and use their combined intelligence to pilot or control it.[4]

One of the most successful and culturally enigmatic gestalt intelligences in the Orion Arm of the Milky Way galaxy,[2] the Lekgolo became the first species to be annexed into the Covenant in 784 BCE.[5]

History[edit]

The Lekgolo first evolved on one of the moons of the gas giant, Te, and thrived by feeding off the rich metal deposits in its crust. The Forerunners cataloged the Lekgolo in their time, albeit in considerably different assemblages than the ones that would be encountered later on.[2] Lekgolo specimens of the Thanolekgolo configuration were to be used in a failed plan undertaken by the Forerunners to defeat the Flood.[6] A number of these specimens were ultimately buried under the surface of Installation 04 by the Forerunners for unknown reasons.[7] They survived the firing of the Array and continued to reproduce and exist as a population for many thousands of years.

Since their combined forms could potentially be highly intelligent, the Lekgolo were able to develop Tier 3 technology on their own, though their space travel capabilities remained highly limited due to the high gravity of their homeworld.[2] At some point following the firing of the Halo Array and their reintroduction to the moons of Te, a number of Lekgolo colonies settled in Forerunner installations orbiting the gas giant. These colonies developed distinct appetites; while many consumed the Forerunner structures themselves for food, others ate anything except Forerunner materials. After several millennia, the Forerunner constructs were almost completely broken down, with the debris forming rings in the planet's orbit.[8]

Contact with the Covenant[edit]

Main article: Taming of the Lekgolo

"Our first encounter with the Lekgolo was an effort in futility. The blasphemous creatures had devoured a Forerunner orbital, shattering its remains into a trillion pieces."
— A San'Shyuum Covenant scribe recalls the Taming of the Lekgolo.

The Lekgolo first came into contact with the Covenant when the alien order arrived at Te in search of Forerunner artifacts in 789 BCE.[1] It discovered that the rings of Te were in fact the remains of a Forerunner orbital construct and soon realized the Lekgolo were responsible for destroying it. The San'Shyuum viewed this as heresy, and declared war on the Lekgolo in what would later be called the Taming of the Lekgolo.[8] Covenant fleet commanders soon found that indiscriminate destruction would have unacceptable consequences: since the Lekgolo largely lived in and among sacred relics that the Sangheili were trying to preserve, simply annihilating the Lekgolo would have resulted in the destruction of those relics.[8]

Likewise, carrying out a ground campaign against the Lekgolo proved difficult, as the Lekgolo were able to combine into powerful collectives, most notably the Mgalekgolo;[1] consequently, the Lekgolo won most, if not all, ground engagements.[2] The Covenant's forces were completely overwhelmed by the sheer size, ferocity and teamwork of their foes.[8] As a result, Jeht 'Lcmutee, the Arbiter who was created during this crisis, suggested that they could be "tamed" and put to better uses as part of the Covenant. The San'Shyuum eventually agreed and decided to forge a pact with the Lekgolo, allowing them to join the Covenant despite their offenses against "sacred" Forerunner artifacts.[2][8]

Service in the Covenant[edit]

Despite initial difficulties at contact due to the Lekgolo's alien methods of communication,[2] the Covenant incorporated the Lekgolo into their ranks in 784 BCE.[5] The Mgalekgolo gestalts, armed with thick armor plates and assault cannons, would come to serve the Covenant as shock troops. Even larger Lekgolo colony assemblages were weaponized as Covenant assault platforms, Scarab and the Harvester, the latter of which is operated by a meta-colony referred to as a Sbaolekgolo.[9] Individual Lekgolo worms, specifically conditioned not to ingest Forerunner alloys, were employed by the ascetic priests studying the Forerunner Dreadnought in High Charity.[8] A number of these Lekgolo stopped Mendicant Bias from taking off in the Forerunner Dreadnought by short circuiting the ship's systems, themselves dying in the process.[10]

Post-Covenant[edit]

During the Great Schism, the species was divided between those that remained loyal to the Covenant, led by the High Prophet of Truth, and those that supported and sided with the Sangheili at the time. During the further conflicts in the wake of the Human-Covenant War, the Lekgolo largely stayed with the Sangheili they had served prior to the Great Schism. A number of these colonies would side with the Swords of Sanghelios, and many would end up fighting alongside the UNSC on occasion.[11] However, many would fight on behalf of other Covenant remnants, including Jul 'Mdama's new Covenant, Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group, and the Banished.[12]

After the destruction of Installation 04, feral Thanolekgolo swarms that had been sealed beneath the ring's surface by the Forerunners were able to break free in certain sections of the ring, namely Alpha Shard, a fragment propelled through slipspace into a close orbit around a red giant. Because of their extremophilic nature and ability to burrow underground, the Lekgolo were able to survive on the fragment for years despite the extreme daytime temperatures.[7] These Lekgolo were highly aggressive, and significantly faster and more agile than their more commonly-encountered brethren.[13] During a joint ONI-Sedran Colonial Guard expedition to Alpha Shard, these Lekgolo swarms hunted and consumed almost the entire group, leaving only two survivors. They were killed when Colonel Randall Aiken detonated a HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon to destroy the shard's deposits of a new element fatal to humans.[13]

Biology[edit]

Anatomy and physiology[edit]

Halo: Nightfall screenshot
A swarm of Lekgolo overwhelming a D81-LRT Condor.

The Lekgolo are characterized by their ability to form bonds with one another both physically and neurologically to form gestalt colonies with a singular personality; these communities, rather than individual Lekgolo eels, are considered the closest thing to a sapient Lekgolo "individual" that can be named.[14] Lekgolo are relatively unintelligent at the most basic level, but can form complex thoughts and emerge as a conscious individual when they combine into larger masses that communicate through chemical and electrical means. A colony's level of intelligence is generally dependent on the amount of neural mass present,[1] and can be scaled upward to a certain extent for increased intelligence. The neural net that Lekgolo colonies develop enables them to be incredibly strong and very sensitive to their surroundings.[2] These gestalts are capable of manifesting in several different forms according to what goal they are striving to achieve and the amount of Lekgolo worms that are present. The Covenant was aware of six different forms of Lekgolo colonies: Dipholekgolo, Mgalekgolo, Rhulolekgolo, Sbaolekgolo, Khantolekgolo, and Thanolekgolo. Each of these gestalts differs in size, mass, and complexity.[1] Because of the nature of the Lekgolo's compound intelligence and consciousness, they cannot be easily assimilated by the Flood, for while each individual worm may have its own central nervous system, the subsistence gestalts do not, and co-opted worms were never able to be used by the Flood to form the gestalts they would otherwise have. The Flood can still certainly use Lekgolo for their biomass, however.[15]

The Lekgolo are xenobiologically classified as a "subsistence gestalt", defined as an alien gestalt community with the ability to survive in extreme conditions, including the vacuum of space, for months or even years with barely any to no outside resources. As such, they were able to survive in Te's orbital rings for vast periods of time.[1] However, Lekgolo are still unable to withstand rapid depressurization.[16] Lekgolo blood is a luminescent orange and smells like burnt plastic.[17] This may be a result of a large iron content, seeing as metals are a fundamental part of Lekgolo diets.

Reproduction and life cycle[edit]

Subsistence gestalts arise from the aggregation of many individual Lekgolo. Distinct Mgalekgolo specifically form from a single large colony splitting in two, with their dorsal spikes containing the remnants of the last connections between the two parts of the colony. It takes 1 to 2 weeks for the Lekgolo to reproduce offspring.

Culture[edit]

A Mgalekgolo fighting in a Forerunner structure on Installation 00.

Little information exists on the internal workings of Lekgolo society, and their political and intellectual structures have been subject to many theories.[2] Most of the information on the Lekgolo is based solely on the Mgalekgolo, which provides only a small hint at the species in its entirety.[1] The Lekgolo almost never associate or even communicate with the other races in the Covenant. Sangheili are the sole exception; the Mgalekgolo appreciate and acknowledge the Sangheili warriors' thoughts and adeptness in combat. To the other races of the Covenant, however, the Mgalekgolo are dismissive, scornful, and arrogant, and they are utterly contemptuous of their foes.[18] Mgalekgolo have no qualms about committing friendly fire against the "lesser" races, like Unggoy and Kig-Yar; during the Battle of Sigma Octanus IV, a Hunter was seen running over and killing an unaware Kig-Yar.[19] In battle, Mgalekgolo will attack foes regardless of any allies that happen to be in their line of fire.[20]

Many members of the Covenant are mystified and confused by the Lekgolo; their way of life is almost as alien to the Covenant as that of the Flood. A Sangheili Fleet Master once noted that Mgalekgolo were known to tear opponents apart with their "bare hands" whilst in a blood frenzy, and then suddenly pause to recite war poetry. It has also been said that Mgalekgolo meditate in their spare time, or before battle.[21]

Role within the Covenant[edit]

The most commonly seen variety of Lekgolo are the Mgalekgolo, hulking bipedal forms used for service within the Covenant military.[2] In this form, they are the strongest and most resilient combatants in the Covenant.[22] Much larger bipedal Lekgolo assemblages that could easily be measured in stories have also been observed, but they are uncommon within the Covenant; the largest known Lekgolo forms reside within the armored shells of Covenant Scarab and Harvester walkers, the latter being known as a Sbaolekgolo.[23] The so-called "Slugmen" were a "pruned" form of Lekgolo gestalt used by the Covenant as scout-snipers in a similar capacity to the Kig-Yar. However, they were exceptionally rarely encountered within the empire even at its height, and most information about the Slugmen has since been lost with the Fall of High Charity.[24]

The Lekgolo were the most plentiful members of the Covenant, numbering in the trillions.[2]

Religion and spirituality[edit]

Lekgolo religious beliefs are poorly understood, though it has been noted that their society in itself has little need for religion.[2] While the Lekgolo joined the Covenant for its access to space trade routes and starships,[2] rather than any real dedication to the Great Journey, at least some hold a concept of an afterlife.[25] Many Lekgolo colonies meditate in their spare time, or recite war poetry before or after battle, showing a more refined nature than would be believed of the hulking, savage warriors.[21] Mgalekgolo have also shown to possess a concept of honor.[25] The fact that some Mgalekgolo allied themselves with the Sangheili during the Great Schism, while others remained with the original Covenant body,[26] is evidence that individual beliefs play a major part in whatever religion or philosophy the Lekgolo possess. Anything further than this is speculation, as Lekgolo culture is extremely reclusive. Even their fellow Covenant know little about them other than that they continue to follow their own cultural traditions, rather than the homogenized religion of the wider Covenant.[2][18]

Languages[edit]

Little is known about the Lekgolo language. The known names of some Mgalekgolo seem to imply that they use very simple vowels, and few consonants—not nearly as many as are contained in the English alphabet. It is known that Mgalekgolo do not use vocal chords to speak; they are, however, capable of mimicking the language of other species via subsonic vibrations of the Lekgolo in their bodies, forming words and sentences that are "felt rather than heard".[21][27] Their quiet nature amongst other races of the Covenant results either from difficulty speaking with other Covenant races or difficulty tolerating other Covenant races.[28] For inter-species communications, Mgalekgolo are capable of speaking at least the Sangheili language,[29] and are not known to interact with any other sapient species. Individual Lekgolo also occasionally make vaguely insectile clicking and chittering noises.[13]

Mgalekgolo tend to make very deep, low rumbling noises when detecting enemies or when wounded. When dying, they occasionally emit a low-pitched scream. They also seem to chuckle after a kill. When angered, Mgalekgolo are also capable of releasing a loud, echoing roar.[30] Aside from that, Mgalekgolo barely talk.

Naming conventions[edit]

Help.png This section needs expansion. You can help Halopedia by expanding it.

Homeworld[edit]

Main article: Te

Lekgolo originated from the rings of Te which formed after the worms demolished a Forerunner orbital. The rings and the planet's moons were home to approximately 1.98 trillion Lekgolo worms. Te is orbited by 25 moons, including Rantu and Uhtua. The planet has a high gravity and an atmosphere primarily composed of nitrogen, helium, and methane.

Technology[edit]

Help.png This section needs expansion. You can help Halopedia by expanding it.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • "Lekgolo" is Tswana for "one hundred", probably a reference to their hive-like physiology.
  • The Lekgolo share many similarities with the alien species known as "Brothers" from the 1992 novel Anvil of Stars by Greg Bear, who coincidentally later wrote the Forerunner Saga. Both are eel-like creatures which are non-sapient by themselves, but can join together to form intelligent gestalt assemblages with their own individual identities.
  • A species of caterpillar native to the Amazon rainforest exhibits behavior considerably similar to the Lekgolo. They gather into large gestalt formations which act and move in perfect unison for increased speed and efficiency.[31]
  • In Halo 3, Scarabs are controlled by the Lekgolo, proven by the fact that they appear around the reactor of the vehicle. They also make up the joints of the legs of the Scarab.
  • Upon shooting a Hunter in Halo 3, a Lekgolo worm will fly out of the main colony, wriggle, squirm, and then disappear, as if it is going underground; the Lekgolo probably vanish due to technical reasons in order to avoid framerate problems.
  • On the Halo 3 multiplayer map Assembly, an "aquarium" filled with Lekgolo waiting to be integrated into a Scarab can be seen.

Gallery[edit]

  • A group of Lekgolo in a Scarab.

    A group of Lekgolo in a Scarab.

  • A Hunter, one form of gestalt formed by Lekgolo.

    A Hunter, one form of gestalt formed by Lekgolo.

  • A Deutoros-pattern Scarab controlled by a colony of Rhulolekgolo.

    A Deutoros-pattern Scarab controlled by a colony of Rhulolekgolo.

  • Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo 3.

    Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo 3.

  • Lekgolo found in the core of a Scarab.

    Lekgolo found in the core of a Scarab.

  • Lekgolo blood. Note the luminous properties.

    Lekgolo blood. Note the luminous properties.

  • A larger form of Hunter in The Duel.

    A larger form of Hunter in The Duel.

  • Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo: Reach.

    Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo: Reach.

  • An individual Lekgolo worm in Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn.

    An individual Lekgolo worm in Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn.

  • An individual Lekgolo worm in Halo: Nightfall.

    An individual Lekgolo worm in Halo: Nightfall.

  • A swarm of Thanolekgolo devour two horses on Alpha Shard in Halo: Nightfall.

    A swarm of Thanolekgolo devour two horses on Alpha Shard in Halo: Nightfall.

  • An individual Lekgolo worm from the Halo 2: Anniversary Terminals.

    An individual Lekgolo worm from the Halo 2: Anniversary Terminals.

  • Lekgolo coalescing into Mgalekgolo to battle an Arbiter.

    Lekgolo coalescing into Mgalekgolo to battle an Arbiter.

  • Lekgolo in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    Lekgolo in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Lekgolo forming a Mgalekgolo to combat Blue Team in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Lekgolo forming a Mgalekgolo to combat Blue Team in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Lekgolo forming into Mgalekgolo during the Battle of Sunaion in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Lekgolo forming into Mgalekgolo during the Battle of Sunaion in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Lekgolo in an assault cannon.

    Lekgolo in an assault cannon.

  • A Lekgolo filled caltrop near an Banished outpost.

    A Lekgolo filled caltrop near an Banished outpost.

  • Lekgolo filled caltrops on Installation 00.

    Lekgolo filled caltrops on Installation 00.

  • Lekgolo improving Banished vehicles.

    Lekgolo improving Banished vehicles.

  • Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo Infinite.

    Exposed Lekgolo worms in a Mgalekgolo's back in Halo Infinite.

  • Lekgolo constricting UNSC personnel in Halo: The Television Series.

    Lekgolo constricting UNSC personnel in Halo: The Television Series.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Waypoint: Lekgolo/Mgalekgolo
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Bestiarum
  3. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 190 - "Lekgolo: the Elite name for the Hunter race".
  4. ^ Bungie Weekly Update 01/11/08
  5. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 114
  6. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder: 2-20-15
  7. ^ a b Halo: Nightfall: RECON-14
  8. ^ a b c d e f Halo: Contact Harvest, pages 269-271
  9. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide
  10. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 276
  11. ^ Halo: New Blood, Chapter 16
  12. ^ Halo 4
  13. ^ a b c Halo: Nightfall, Chapter 2
  14. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 267
  15. ^ Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe, Wages of Sin: page 301
  16. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 218
  17. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 221
  18. ^ a b Bungie.net: The Covenant Primer
  19. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach, page 222
  20. ^ Halo 3: ODST
  21. ^ a b c Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, pages 190-191
  22. ^ Halo 3 Instruction Manual
  23. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 130
  24. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Digsite Dissection (Retrieved on Jul 28, 2023) [archive]
  25. ^ a b Halo: The Flood, "Chapter ??", page ??
  26. ^ Halo 3
  27. ^ Bungie.net: Halo 3: ODST Field Guide
  28. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 277
  29. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 198
  30. ^ Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn, Part 5
  31. ^ YouTube: A STRANGE but GENIUS Caterpillar Speed Trick - Smarter Every Day 93

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