The gill mantle (Na'vi name: Txampaysye meaning "sea breather") is a gelatinous invertebrate found in the oceans of Pandora. Through tsaheylu, the gill mantle can be used as a "biological diving suit" that feeds oxygen to the Na'vi while diving.[1]
Anatomy[]
The gill mantle resembles a Terran jellyfish in both its appearance and fluid-like movements.[1] It glows red when bonded to a Na'vi using one of its six tentacle-like arms. The enzymatic receptors along its body allows it to produce light.
It has not evolved to have a traditional respiratory system; its whole body acts as a sort of "lung" which diffuses water using its epidermis.
Scientists have theorized that the gill mantle has co-evolved with the ocean Na'vi because they provide protection. Evidence to support this is that the gill mantle can sting using its tentacles which are lined with microscopic stingers to trap prey, but the Na'vi appear to be immune to this.
It lives up to 5 years and its top-speed is 5 mph. Its slow speed is disadvantageous as other creatures like akula and skimwings can easily feed on them.[2]
Avatar: The Way of Water[]
The Sully children are introduced to the gill mantle by Tsireya while helping Ronal and other Metkayina harvest food underwater. This organism plays a pivotal role in the rescue of Tuktirey and Neytiri from the sinking SeaDragon; guided by bioluminescent, squid-like creatures, Kiri brings a gill mantle into the ship with her and gives it to her mother to help her respire underwater.
