If you are in search for its Electronic Disruption Type counterpart, see Eintagsfliege.
The Edelfalter (発電子機型, Ederufarutā, lit. "Generator Type"?)[1] is the Generator Extension Type Legion unit, and also the smallest one, alongside the Eintagsfliege, which it should not be confused with.
With the shape and size of a butterfly, its small enough to fit in an adult human hand palm. Its name derives from the German word that stands for Nymphalidae (see Trivia).
It is a unit specialized in both power transfer and power generation. Its wings actually act as solar panels. It is usually deployed to assist wireless power transfer from an assigned Admiral to other Legion units; though it can also generate a smaller amount of power by itself.
Description[]
They accompany Admiral units, serving under them.[2][3] Just like most Admiral, they also use their wings as solar panels to generate electricity from solar energy.[2] Their structure, similar to a solar cell, gives them their characteristic bluish color.[2][4][5]
They are also used by the Morpho to recharge after firing the railgun. In fact, if conditions allow it, the Morpho are always accompanied by a large swarm of Edelfalter that operates in their complete service.[6][7][4]
During the night, in the absence of sunlight, they lie on the ground waiting for dawn, at which point they simultaneously spread their wings and begin to operate,[2][4] though effectively start to fly at sunrise.[2][5]
Being non-combat units, they are not equipped with significant armaments, except their solar panel wings. If disturbed by an enemy entity, they simply move apart or fly away, almost as if they had been bothered or startled.[2][4][5]
Trivia[]
- As described in the light novel, their color resembles that of lapis lazuli.[2]
- Lacking the same technical specifications as the Eintagsfliege, they do not seem capable of seriously injuring a person in the same way.
- They are clearly shown in the second opening of the anime, from minute 1:00 to minute 1:05, right before Kiriya is shown as well.[8]
- Kiriya Nuozen's neural network was the first to be installed on a Morpho unit (see Description).
- Speaking of butterfly species, the Nymphalidae (DE: Edelfalter) are the largest family of butterflies known in nature. They include the genera Limenitis (commonly called "Admiral") and Morpho.