Hydra
An ancient species, presumed to be a primitive relative to Dragons, whose appearance has remained mostly unchanged for thousands of years. Despite this, very little is known of the hydra life cycle. Corpses tend to decompose at an accelerated rate, not to mention hydra possess an inclination to consume their own dead. This leaves little evidence for biologists to dissect, with most info best retained from live studies or fossil evidence. Hydra are perhaps best known for their regenerative abilities, which is most easily observed when one of their heads is severed. The effect isn't instant, a hydra needs to feed in order to regrow missing body parts.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The bodies of hydra are deemed particularly bizarre. 5 appears to be the optimal number of heads, but it is possible for an individual to support many more, only limited by how much head weight the hydra can handle, which is determined by its body size.
Biological Traits
There are two known variants of hydra, the most common one possesses smooth heads capable of spitting a paralyzing fluid. A lesser known variant has "feathered" heads which it shakes to spread a sleep-inducing mist.
Ecology and Habitats
Hydra are most active at night, preferring to avoid direct sunlight. They are most often found in damp, subterranean areas.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Hydras appear to have no eyes or ears, yet they are more than capable of sensing the world around them. Experts suggest that a strong sense of smell, taste, and electroreception abilities allow a hydra to navigate.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Curiously, individual hydra do not seem to have names. All hydra refer to themselves as "we" regardless if they are within a group or alone.
Gender Ideals
Gender is a laughable concept for hydra.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Typically hydra avoid or are hostile towards other species. There is a hydra known to be an advisor to the dragon empress.
Lifespan
No hydra has died of old age, however, they can be killed or perish from starvation.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
A ghostly pale semi-translucent body. Hydra tend to have cool-colour tints, and an iridescent mucus coating. Markings, if any, usually consist of stripes or spots and are typically darker and sparsely distributed. The most common variant of hydra possesses bright red heads.
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