Eridian (Eh-rid-dee-ann)

Eridians are humanoid crab-like species that reside underground the deserts of the planet Eridu. They share a common ancestor with the Crythians.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Eridians have an exoskeleton that covers their entire body to protect them from the harsh underground terrain. They have two sets of upper limbs, the larger set resembling large claws used for hunting and digging, and the smaller set which function as manipulators, possess five digits capable of intricate movements and delicate tasks.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Eridians exoskeletons range in colours, from brown to dark orange, and can develop various markings, which play a significant role in their social hierarchy.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Eridians eyesight is accustomed to the dimly lit underground caverns, capable of perceiving subtle changes in light and shadow. However their eyesight is sensitive which causes them to struggle on the surface in daylight.

Ecology and Habitats

Due to the searing heat and lack of surface resources on Eridu, the Eridians have adapted to live exclusively in the extensive network of underground caverns. These caverns provide them with a stable and hospitable environment, shielded from the scorching temperatures and sandstorms that plague the planet's surface.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Eridians are omnivores, with a preference to eating small invertebrates like insects, small crustaceans and other subterranean creatures. They also forage and actively cultivate edible vegetation in the caverns, including fungi, mosses, lichens, etc.

Due to the limited access to water on Eridu, the Eridians have adapted to minimizing the need of direct water consumption, instead becoming highly effiecient with extracting and conserving moisture from their food.

Scientific Name

Eridunarius Eridia

Average Lifespan

70 years

Conservation Status

Low Concern

Average Height

5'6"

Geographic Distribution

Eridu

Genetics and Reproduction

Eridians reproduce sexually, where after a successful mating the female will become pregnant for 7 months. When she is ready to give birth, she seeks out a safe and secluded nesting area within the caverns.

The other female members of the community assist in preparing the nest by providing materials like soft vegetation and discarded exoskeletons to create a warm and protective environment for the newborns.

Growth Rate and Stages

Young Eridians are born with a soft exoskeleton, which hardens as they grow and shed. They reach maturity when they reach around 15 years old, where their exoskeleton should be fully hardened.

Civilization and Culture

SOCIAL STRUCTURE

Eridian society revolves around a caste system, based on markings present on their exoskeletons. These markings are referred to as "Caste Marks" and determine an individual's role and responsibility within their society. While the markings develop on an Eridian's exoskeleton from a young age, it doesn't finish developing until they reach maturity.

Worker Caste	None or Plain Markings	Majority of the population, responsible with gathering resources, construction, maintaining cavern infrastructure and providing food for the community.
Warrior Caste	Bold Markings	Protectors and defenders of the community. Warrior caste undergo rigorous training and are highly skilled in combat to fulfil their responsibilities.
Royal Caste	Intricate Markings	The ruling caste of the Eridians, responsible of maintaining social order, managing resources and maintaining the well being of the community.

FAUX MARKS

Eridians pretending to be a different caste is seen as breach of social norm and trust. If the individual admits to it and expresses remorse, they may be reintegrated back into the community after re-education and counselling. Malicious intent can result in the culprit becoming a pariah, or even banished.

PAINTED MARKS

Eridians who demonstrate dedication and outstanding contributions for the community are sometimes bestowed with painted marks by the royal caste as a sign of respect and recognition. These marks serve as a symbol of honour, and significantly boost their standing in the community.

Painted marks are typically vibrant colours, with intricate patterns that symbolise the individual's achievements. They are carefully painted on specific prominent sections of the exoskeleton, to ensure the marks are noticeable.
In the event that one sheds, they can just return to the painter to have it reapplied again.

LANGUAGE

Eridians use a mixture of clicking with their pincers and verbal speech to express intent and mood in their words. There are also slight variations of the language written dependant on caste, with the royal caste opting for more elaborate and intricate symbols, while the warrior and worker caste prefer practicality and efficiency.

COMMON DRESS CODE

Eridians will wear accessories as a means to reflect their caste affiliation and also as a form of self-expression. On the off chance they have to go up to the surface, Eridians will wear specialised protective eyewear to shield their eyes from the brightness of the sun

BEAUTY IDEALS

Exoskeleton patterns and markings are considered attractive traits, with symmetry and well-defined patterned being considered very aesthetically pleasing.
Caste-wise, members of the worker and warrior caste prioritize strength and resilience in their beauty ideals, while the royal caste members have taken to more regal appearances.

COURTSHIP IDEALS

Courtship for Eridians differs depending on the caste:

1. Worker Caste - Members of the worker caste will often demonstrate their practical kills, resourcefulness and dependability. Prospective partners may work together in joint tasks to showcase their ability to contribute and prove they can support one another.
2. Warrior Caste - For warriors, physical prowess and bravery are admired traits. Potential partners may engage in friendly competitions to demonstrate their strength and combat skills.
3. Royal Caste - Courtship often involves formal rituals and displays of wealth and power. Preservation and strengthening alliances between communities are emphasized.

INTERSPECIES RELATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS

Crythians

Despite their shared lineage, the two species have developed a strained and conflict-ridden relationship. The majority of their conflicts are related to environmental competition, cultural differences, and perceptual disparities.

While there are rumours of Eridian/Crythian hybrids, the concept is looked down upon by Eridians and any sort would be banished or killed.

Space-faring Species

As a subterranean species, the Eridians have had limited contact with other extra-terrestrial life forms off of their homeplanet. However, occasional encounters of Eridians on the surface, they have built a reputation of being distrustful and wary of others.
They have membership with the Galactic Union, though it is mainly by proxy through the Crythians. They have a representative only because they don't want the Crythians to speak for them.