Variations: Rota
The Trochus, “wheel”, or Rota is a huge sea-monster known to swim close to shore in large groups. Schools (pods?) of these have been seen off Athos and Sigeum.
A trochus is fortunately timid, despite having a crest and spines of great size that show above the water. It revolves and contracts and dives deep, uncoiling and rolling and returning to the surface.
The wheel-like resemblance suggests a jellyfish or ray, but the size and behavior makes it clear that the trochus is a whale surfacing and diving.
References
Aelian, trans. Scholfield, A. F. (1959) On the Characteristics of Animals, vol. III. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
A Book of Creatures 
I wonder if you can pet them like rays?
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They’re probably all squidgy.
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This reminds me a lot of the tiny, prehistoric Wiwaxia.
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Might have been subliminally inspired!
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Doesn’t this description suggest a vertical wheel-like creature?
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It seems more likely, to the point where it becomes a whale’s arched back. My first thought was “is this a jellyfish??”
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Oh my gosh it’s ADORABLE ❤ !!!
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Could it be some variety of flounder?
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Or maybe a sunfish?
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I just made it my background on Google.
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😍
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Love the category of sea monsters, or any monster, that is just a vague shape or mysterious appendage. I wonder if these things likes cuddling. :3
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It would be all squishy =3
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