Kapenyeb (Kah-PEHN-yehb)

The Kapenyeb is an aquatic mammal, very similar in nature to Earth's dolphins, but with horned protrusions similar to tusks at their mouth.   They are used as beasts of burden by Retikan Seadwellers, specifically the Tropical Seadwellers.
Kapenyeb are able to hold its breath for up to 20 minutes while idle, or around 10-12 minutes while active.
Kapenyeb are highly intelligent and social animals, and wild kapenyeb will travel in family pods.  Domesticated kapenyeb remain in pods, but often form bonds with their Seadweller caretakers.
Wild kapenyeb have been observed mourning the deaths of their podmates, and have displayed altruistic behavior, defending podmates or even other species from predators.
Domesticated kapenyeb are primarily used as transport animals for most of Retikan Seadweller history.   A harness is fitted over the kapenyeb's head, and is secured around the animal's body, just behind the two pectoral fins.  This allows a Seadweller to lay prone on the animal's back, behind the dorsal fin and ride the kapenyeb through the water.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The anatomy of the kapenyeb is very similar to "dolphins" as found on Earth.  They have a very streamlined body, suitable for long distance aquatic travel.  They have a singlular tail fin that is designed to move up and down in the water to propel the animal along.   They possess a dorsal fin along their back, and two pectoral fins on either side of their belly.

Genetics and Reproduction

Kapenyeb reproduce sexually, and are viviporous.

Growth Rate & Stages

Kapenyeb reach sexual maturity at approximately 10 solar cycles, and live approximately 50 solar cycles.

Ecology and Habitats

Kapenyeb are native to the tropical oceans of Ret IV, but selective breeding by Retikan Seadwellers have produced some variants that are able to better tolerate the polar oceans.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Kapenyeb are omnivores, typically feeding off schools of smaller fish as well as various kelp and seaweed.

Biological Cycle

This species goes into heat once per Retikan Solar Cycle, typically during the summer months.

Additional Information

Domestication

Kapenyeb were first domesticated during the Seadwellers' tribal stages.   Due to that domestication, the species dorsal fin has gotten slightly smaller, their lung capacity and overall stamina has increased, and their ability to withstand colder water temperatures for longer.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Kapenyeb are primarily used as beasts of burden or transport animals.  They had breifly been hunted for food while the Seadwellers' cultures was still in a tribal stage, but that fell out of practice shortly after their domestication.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Kapenyeb possess organs that allow them to hear, see, smell, and navigate easily in the water.

Lifespan

50-55 Retikan Solar Cycles

Conservation Status

The species is not endangered or in need of protective measures.