Yeah I considered that it could be related to using oxce+ because another poster mentioned playing the same missions. And yeah I was wondering where you get that item that is a prereq to barracuda research. I got a lobster navigator eventually for mantas, then a commander so I could finish the game, but i really hate playing through T'Leth.
I enjoyed the mod, though I can say I never encountered Freak alien type in my entire playthrough, not sure how rare they are supposed to be. Mostly encoutered Gill Men early then Tasoth/Naga/Lobster late.