Scientific Analysis has answered questions about many lifeforms in the galaxy, but some creatures continue to defy analysis, such as the Sarlacc. A rare, enormous beast, one Sarlacc rests in the basin of the Great Pit of Carkoon in the Northern Dune Sea of Tatooine. The Sarlacc's three-meter)wide mouth is the only part above ground level, and is otherwise completely concealed beneath the desert sands. While some xenobiologists argue over whether the Sarlacc is a plant or animal, most agree that the creature is far too dangerous to merit extended study.

The Sarlacc feeds on stray creatures that cannot escape the sandy slopes that surround its mouth, but not all of its meals are accidental. For many years Jabba the Hutt delivered his enemies as "gifts" to the Sarlacc. Almost none of his enemies survived such a close encounter.