Yutaaq

yutaaq (pl.) / yutaaq (sing.)

Basic Information

Anatomy

Yutaaq are large, muscular hominids originating from southern Iasteron. As part of their adaption to the Iasterioni climate, they have a flexible, waterproof skin which thickens into something approaching a natural armour in maturity, and a layer of blubber as insulation. They are remarkably hardy and capable of surviving traumatic injury, and long stints of exertion with few ill-effects. In addition, yutaaq are strong swimmers, capable of diving to over 100 metres and holding their breath for up to five minutes. On laand, yutaaq are persistence hunters who leverage their superior endurance and complex social structure to chase down and ambush prey.

Tusks

Although yutaaq are superficially similar to the precursor species, adolescent males begin to develop a pair of tusks which protrude above the lower lip and grow no less than an inch long, measured from the gum. Natural variations within the species govern length and number of tusks - the longest tusk on record is three inches, and approximately one third of yutaaq men have a smaller, secondary pair which begin to develop in early adulthood.
Archaeological evidence suggests that tusks may have developed as a response to sexual selection, possibly as a means to distinguish yutaaq from precursor males, as the two species are morphologically similar but genetically incompatible. As a significant gender marker in yutaaq, cosmetic dentistry is part of gender transition. Transfeminine yutaaq may have their tusks removed or significantly reduced and shaped to a more feminine pattern. Transmasculine yutaaq will begin to develop tusks during transition, but ceramic false tusks are available for trans men, cis men whose tusks have been removed or fall below the desired size, and may also used by butch women, genderfluid  AFAB yutaaq, drag kings, and actors.

Genetics and Reproduction

Yutaaq are mammals, giving birth to one child every 3-4 years, after a fifty-week gestation. Infants remain dependent on adult caregivers for several years, with full physical maturity only being achieved after two decades. As with all species, yutaaq are capable of reproduction with immortals and the resulting offspring is a mage

Ecology and Habitats

The optimal environment for yutaaq is temperate and subarctic zones, but their adaptability means they have spread across the globe, using magic and technology to adapt environments to their needs. Archaeological evidence of ancient yutaaq suggest a semi-aquatic lifestyle, with early settlements almost exclusively around coasts and rivers, and a diet of crustaceans and marine mammals supplemented by inland hunting and aquaculture. Even into the modern era, inland settlements are predominantly cohabitated, with single-species settlements remaining near the coast.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Yutaaq are omnivorous but lack the enzymes necessary to digest alcohol and become intoxicated much faster than other species. Consequentially, many yutaaq forego alcohol entirely. Although yutaaq evolved as pescatarians, many choose to supplement their diet with red meat. They are capable of thriving on a vegetarian diet, but their caloric and protein demands mean that no cultures and few individuals follow a vegan diet for prolonged periods - although some religious and cultural groups use periods of veganism as part of a ritual fast.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Historically, yutaaq have tended to live in family groups, orbiting a senior member or senior couple. On marriage, adults often leave the family group and form their own, but remain in close physical and social contact with their extended family and childless adults will routinely care for related young. Yutaaq are intensely social beings, and readily pack-bond with others, including non-sapient species, and will assist those in need or danger, including strangers and non-sapient species, even at mortal risk to themselves. In mixed-species settings, family dynamics such as alloparenting are extended towards non-yutaaq members of a pack-bonded group. This does not negatively affect the yutaaq members' ability to identify or attract a partner.
Due to the importance of community, prolonged isolation has adverse effects to a yutaaq's physical and mental health and is to be avoided.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

First emerging from southern Iasteron, yutaaq have successfully integrated into all parts of the globe. They are extremely hardy, able to adapt to almost all climates within a relatively short timeframe, and may be found worldwide.

Average Intelligence

Yutaaq enjoy problem-solving and are innately curious. Left to their own devices, they appear driven to create complex constructions and intricate visual artwork and songs.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Primarily visual predators, yutaaq have good binocular vision and adequate hearing, but a sub-standard sense of smell. A species defined by its adaptability, individuals can compensate for the loss of one or more senses through a reliance on other senses and/or through the use of adaptive devices including, but not limited to, specially trained non-sapient animals.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Symptomatic host of Therianthropy

Civilization and Culture

Common Etiquette Rules

Yutaaq considered it rude to display their teeth more than necessary or to make eye contact when eating, as both acts are related to historic dominance displays. Consequentially, they consider it polite to cover the mouth with a hand or other object when laughing. More relaxed environments may permit for a single finger to be used, but this will almost certainly cause offence among strangers or in formal settings.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Yutaaq and ialya formed a mutually beneficial relationship soon after first contact. The two species integrated into each other's communities easily, and ialya benefited from the yutaaq's physical strength as protection from predators, while the yutaaq benefited from the ialya's ability to keep watch at night, when their scent and hearing was superior to yutaaq vision.

by Roman Tishenin

Portrait of King Sigfrid Iaenbeorht

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Yutaaq

Genetic Descendants

• Magen
• Yutaaq

Scientific Name

bæga hrasðotochy

Lifespan

80-90 years

Average Height

1.8-2 metres

Average Weight

110-150kg (adult weight)

Average Physique

Heavy and robust. Muscles may be visible but lack definition, especially on the torso, due to thick skin and a layer of blubber.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Skin tones vary from pale-grey/brown to black. Freckles, spots and patches, vitiglio and albinism are within the natural variations of markings.

Geographic Distribution

• Aeho'ai
• Ewura
• Iasteron
• Ophoné
• Qevrun
• South Erwa
• Xohura

Related Organizations

• Bjerian Empire