Zuola (Zoo-Oh-Lah)

The Zuola are a insect-like species that resides on Ombros. They are known for their adaptive and highly collaborative nature but have a reputation for being simple-minded which has led to their exploitation.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Zuolans possess an exoskeleton, typical of arthropods, which provides them with structural support and protection. The exoskeleton is notable for its diverse composition, incorporating an assortment of materials sourced from the junkyard landscape they inhabit. Initially, Zuolans utilized natural materials available in their environment, but as the scarcity of such resources increased, they gradually shifted towards employing salvaged scrap materials to augment their protective armour.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The patterns and markings on a Zuolan exoskeleton change depending on what's been salvaged from scrap, which helps them camoflague into the envoriment easily.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Their head features a pair of large compound eyes that provide Zuolans with excellent vision, allowing them to navigate their chaotic surroundings with ease. They possess specialized antennae, which serve as sensory organs for detecting vibrations and chemical cues in their environment.

Ecology and Habitats

Formally the Zuola used to live in large caverns and hollows in the ground, though now they live in large constructed settlements dug out of the junk.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Zuola are omnivores and will eat whatever they can get their hands on. They encourage growth of various plants they find within the scrap, and will set up traps to catch smaller creatures.

Genetics and Reproduction

Zuolans reproduce sexually, where after a successful mating the female will become pregnant for 2 months, before laying a clutch of eggs. It then takes a further 4 months before the eggs hatch.

Growth Rate and Stages

Zuolan offspring undergo metamorphosis during their development. After hatching, the Zuolan emerges as a larva and will grow in size until they reach around 7 years and pupate.
The pupation stage lasts around 4 years, until an adult Zuolan breaks out, reaching maturity at 15 years.

Average Lifespan

50 years

Conservation Status

Low Concern.

Average Height

3'9"

Geographic Distribution

Ombros

Behaviour

Zuolans are very social creatures, exhibiting a complex social intelligence. Within their settlements the Zuolans coordinate their activities and share information to efficiently untilize resources they have avaliable.
Zuolans communicate both by verbal speak and chemical signals released from specialised glands.

Social Structure

Zuolans have a social structure based on age, where the young are taught by and respect their elders.
When dealing with other species, the Zuolan who can communicate the best is appointed leader.

Civilization and Culture

COMMON ETIQUETTE RULES

It is expected for Zuolans to work together harmonously to solve problems and achieve common goals. Even if two Zuolans dislike one another, they will still work together for goals that benefit them both or the whole settlement. Zuolans also hold high importance on recycling and waste management, taking care to properly dispose of hazardous material and waste away from their settlements.

MAJOR LANGUAGE GROUPS AND DIALECTS

Zuolans have a simple spoken and written language since the majority of their communication is through chemical signals. They speak in short sentences to get to the point quicker. They are able to pick up on other languages easier because of this, and will trade words with each other to help with interspecies encounters.

AVERAGE TECHNOLOGICAL LEVEL

The majority of the Zuolan's technology has been built upon reverse engineering machinery and junk that been left by other species on Ombros.

Relationships

BEAUTY IDEALS

The constuction and decoration of their protective exoskeleton plays a significant part in the ideas of beauty for a Zuolan. Elaborate designs and precise craftsmanship are valued, showcasing an individual's skill and attention to detail.
Having a robust exoskeleton is considered attractive as it indicates a higher level of protection and resilience to deal with the demanding and danger of their junkyard habitat. Symmetry and proportions are also seen as aesthetically pleasing, and is a physical indicator on genetic fitness and overall health of the Zuolan.

COURTSHIP IDEALS

Zuolan females seeking mates may showcase their proficiency in scavenging and constructing intricate structures made from found materials to demonstrate their ability to have a safe place to raise their young and contribute to the settlement.

Zuolan males will often present valuable or scarce resources they've acquired during scavenging activites to symbolize their ability to provide their potential partner and their offspring.

Zuolans will also express interest in each other through chemical signals, emmiting specific pheromones and chemical cues to indicate reproductive readiness.

Zuolans are polygamous, with both males and females known to have multiple partners. While there is usually competition in attracting potential partners, it is not unheard of for two to collaborate in order to win the affections of the same partner since cooperation is an attractive trait.

INTERSPECIES RELATIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS

Zuola are initially wary of other species, due to their experience of their planet being exploited and stories of their own kind being stolen away from them.
However if it is made clear that you are looking for trade, they'll perk up very quickly.

USES, PRODUCTS & EXPLOITATION

Along with the degradation of their planet, the Zuola have been exploited by other species due to their "simple-mindedness". There have been Zuola collected for use in reverse engineering important machinery and items, however this has been known to back-fire due to the Zuolan's group intelligence.

DOMESTICATION

Zuolans had become a popular exotic pet for many in the galaxy, until it became banned to own one by the Galactic Union. However there is still an illegal trade, resulting in many being taken from their home and isolated from meeting their own kind.

Domesticated Zuolans

Domesticated Zuolans are usually sold in pairs, as they get extremely lonely without another of their kind, due to the fact they are unable to fully communicate with other species the same way as their own. It is encouraged to give a Zuolan their own resources to build their nests as if they are given an already constructed or existing nest, they will break it down and reconstruct it as their own.
Domesticated Zuolans need to feel like they are helping and will mirror actions and routines of other members of the household.