Pyromantis
The Pyromantis is a species of Praying Mantis corrupted by the Glade of Awakening. The Pyromantis was gifted with increased size and control over fire.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Like a normal Praying Mantis, the Pyromantis has six limbs, with the front two having serrated edges for grabbing and restraining prey, as well as a triangular head with two large compound eyes on ether side. This is where the similarities end, as the Pyromantis has large mandibles which are displaced by an oil gland, containing a highly flammable substance. When the Mantis opens it's mandibles as wide as possible, the gland is squeezed, and oil shoots out in a line to hit targets up to 20 feet away. The exoskeleton of the Pyromantis is rough and porous, and similar to stone or metal ore. The Pyromantis has also given up it's wings in exchange for stronger back legs, giving it the ability to jump forward up to five times it's body length.
Biological Traits
Females remain larger than the male, as well as more aggressive. However; cannibalism rates have declined as the Pyromantis' exoskeleton is fireproof.
Ecology and Habitats
The Pyromantis prefers a dry climate with little foliage, and plentiful rocks. It camouflages itself against jagged terrain and dead foliage to get the upper hand against prey.
They also have a dense population around the Glade of Awakening, leaving swaths of singed foliage in their wake.
They also have a dense population around the Glade of Awakening, leaving swaths of singed foliage in their wake.
Dietary Needs and Habits
It feeds primarily on burnt matter; almost exclusively carnivorous. It hunts by ambushing with a spray of oil, then jumping with it's powerful legs to grab onto it's prey. While grabbing, the serrated edges of the front legs create a spark to ignite the prey, while the Pyromantis remains unharmed.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
If killed quickly, the oil gland can be harvested; as it is very useful for adventurers in cooking or emergency lantern oil, as well as general pyromania applications.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
The Pyromantis is fully capable of seeing in an almost 360 degree view around itself, thanks to the position of it's eyes.
The Antennae of a Pyromantis can detect smoke in the air that's half a mile away, allowing for unique scavenging options.
The Antennae of a Pyromantis can detect smoke in the air that's half a mile away, allowing for unique scavenging options.
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