Strilstsk
The Strilstsk are a snake-like alien species, one of the founding members of the Daltari League.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The Strilstsk are snake-like, with a flexible exoskeletal spine and bone plates covering their sides, but an exposed underbelly. The lateral plates feature protrusions which are used for locomotion particularly when burrowed in sand.
The tail of the Strilstsk features a venomous spine. The venom has been confirmed to be effective against common biochemistries from most populated planets, including the Strilstsk themselves. The exact function varies slightly depending on the target, but is a neurotoxin in most cases. In humans, it also has strong hallucinogenic effects.
The head is both vertically and horizontally symmetric, featuring two pairs of eyes above and below the mouth as well as three finger-like appendages each above and below the mouth, which are used to grip objects against the mouth. The Strilstsk use both these fingers and their body to hold objects, depending on size and required dexterity.
Ecology and Habitats
The Strilstsk homeworld features large deserts, in which they evolved. They are nocturnal, originally burying in the sand during the day. This still applies, as their equivalent of a bed is a vat of sand to burrow in. They are very resistant against temperature fluctuations, being able to tolerate even the midday desert heat by producing a quickly evaporating sweat analog. However the production of this liquid is slow, which limits the maximum time exposed to high heat.
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