Eridan
Eridans (not to be confused with the demonym Eridian) are the species making up the genus Homo, which are divided into five distinct species, H. obelensis (Obellians), armarensis (Armarians), polaris (Polarians), rida (Ridans), and miruna (Mirunites [extinct]), as well as the subspecies H. armarensis cartensis (Cartians). The genus first evolved some 5 million years ago in the savannas west of the Tapavur Sea. In many ways their physical and cultural evolution strongly resemble that of humans, and they resemble humans almost entirely on the outside, however more outward diversity exists among the individual species. Eridan skin color ranges from off-white to dark brown, often with faint blue, green or orange hues, with Cartians possessing a more reddish appearance.
Eridans also possess different features depending on species that differ their appearance from humans. All species however possess semi-prehensile tails, some form of markings along the torso and limbs, and a vastly different internal anatomy. Some species walk on their toes (digitigrade) whilst others walk on their heels (plantigrade).
Basic Information
Anatomy
All Eridan species possess four limbs connected to a central torso with a head on top of the torso. Eridans have an internal skeleton made of bone (though which is less dense due to Eridus' lower gravity). Eridans stand upright and walk on their toes, using their five or six-fingered hands for grasping. In many ways their external anatomy resembles the "perfect human body" thought experiment, though still differs from this model in some ways.
Growth Rate & Stages
Eridans typically grow to adulthood within 15-20 years after birth, similar to modern humans, with individuals typically reaching middle age by 70-100 and old age by anywhere from 120-200, often being able to live in this stage for several more centuries.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Varies by species
Domestication
Varies, certain subspecies have been used as "slave races" by certain societies
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Worldwide
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Eridans have all the same senses as humans, though with a slightly stronger sense of smell
Civilization and Culture
History
Eridans first evolved roughly 5 million years ago as Homo archaeus, spreading around the world over the course of 2 million years and slowly diversifying into different species. Obellians and Polarians descended from migrants to Obela, splitting off roughly 1 mya. Ridans previously dominated the region of Kesira in northwestern Armara for 800,000 years until being pushed back by Armarans 20-30,000 years ago. Armarans first evolved only 100,000 years ago though now are the most populous species, splitting off into a Cartian subspecies 50,000 years ago. Mirunites settled the island of Miruna 200,000 years ago, though their isolation and low population resulted in them dying off after first contact with Armaran explorers in the 53rd and 54th centuries AF.
Scientific Name
Homo eridanus
Lifespan
200-300 Earth years (often lower, highest recorded being 1,161)
Conservation Status
Least concern
Average Height
1.2 to 2.2 meters
Average Weight
40-100kg
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