Would it be possible for a non-aquatic species to exhibit bioelectrogenesis?

This is my first post on these forums, sorry if I've accidentally overlooked any rules or etiquette. Please let me know if more detail is necessary or would be helpful. This question is about a specific species in a setting I'm developing but I'd like to know if the concept is possible before getting into too much detail and wasting anyone's time.

I'm wondering if a land-dwelling species would be able to generate electricity the way electric fish do, with an electrocyte organ and electric organ discharge (EOD). From what I understand, the water surrounding an organism keeps it from being electrocuted during EOD since the water acts as a conductor for the current. Would a non-aquatic animal be able to actually biologically generate and discharge current (and utilize it as a defense mechanism to deter predators that have them compromised through direct contact when fleeing isn't an option) without just shocking itself?

Would the size of the creature be significant in determining whether or not this is a possibility? Would they need some kind of conductive biological grounding to distribute the charge and minimize harm to themselves when discharging? What other factors would I have to consider developing a non-aquatic creature with this ability?

Edit: I appreciate the suggestions to do with the other thread. I had not seen that thread even though I looked for more threads to do with electricity. I like the idea and am considering it! However, my question is about bioelectrogenesis which involves an electrocyte organ and EOD. While the triboelectric static charging idea is interesting and certainly fun to consider, it is not what I am asking about and I'm not sure if a significant enough charge to deter predators could be built up via friction without being released at inopportune times.

I want to know if it is possible for a land-bound creature to effectively utilize an electrocyte organ. If I understand correctly, triboelectric static buildup would release on contact with many things the creature could touch aside from predators. The electrocyte organ fires only when the animal needs it to--like an eel sending out electric pulses to detect prey, or discharging electricity to incapacitate prey--and generates electricity internally, rather than through external friction. I hope that makes sense. Thank you.

posted almost 6 years ago

merry‭

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