Pialja

Pialjas are small, feisty, reptilian creatures with photosynthesis capabilities. They have developed a symbiotic relationship with many of the plant species that grow in the Equoni Mountains near the Astorian kingdom of Wakatakte. With their green coloration from the chlorophyll in their skin, they rest on vegetation to camouflage themselves while photosynthesizing. In turn, they give the plant protection by eating bugs and other pests that would eat the plant. When they are perched on a plant, they appear to blend in fully with the leaf they’re sitting on. Some plant species can continue to photosynthesize, at least somewhat, while it’s resting on top of a leaf because of its translucent skin and organs.
If disturbed by humans, these little creatures will “scream”, which is described as a sort of chirp because they are so small. It’s thought that this is a defense mechanism to ward off predators or other Pialjas.
Pialjas are edible, but they are not commonly used in cuisine. On the rare occasions they are, they are sometimes used in specialty dishes or ceremonial dishes made in certain circles. Capable of growing to the size of a human finger, Pialjas are usually eaten whole, fried or sautéed, and served with some type of sauce. Older generations of these specific circles are more inclined to keep to this culinary tradition, however the younger generations tend not to eat them because of their perceived cuteness. Instead of eating them, they will occasionally catch them and keep them as pets in terrariums or other plant-decorated enclosures.