Hect-Crab

This pack animal is strange to say the least. Hermit crabs that were cultivated over generations to grow bigger and bigger. The people of the Mayynou Triad have these crustaceans around for all sorts of pack work, as trade goods, and as pets.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Hermit crabs were never going to get this size on their own, and the problems the hect-crab face show precisely why this is. The shell, once a hect-crab gets to a certain size, becomes to big for them to move on their own. The people who herd them in the triad remove shells for the crabs then use them as currency or as a crafting good. What's left of the exoskeleton is then very thin in comparison to their ancestors. These critters are quite strong however, especially as a means of aquatic travel. They can pull and carry large amounts of weight compared to the humanoids who take care of them when they aren't growing a shell that's too large for them. If one lives long enough they can get to gargantuan size, as they don't stop growing anymore.

Genetics and Reproduction

They lay broods of eggs every year with a high yeild but low percentage chance of the offspring making it to adulthood.

Growth Rate & Stages

The first decade of the life of a hect-crab is rapid growth as they go from tiny creatures to small. They then grow for the rest of their lives but much slower.

Ecology and Habitats

Domesticated, which makes it practically impossible for them to survive in the wild. They require safe lodging and to be fed or allowed to graze.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Mass consumption of sea grass whenever possible.

Additional Information

Domestication

Magicly so. The druids of the Mayynou Triad increased their futility and growth rates over the span of generations. This was originally done as a way to harvest more food easier, but the crabs became very useful for many other things on the islands.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Almost entirely centralized in the Mayynou Triad

Average Intelligence

Poor

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Mostly blind as they get older, they can only truly sense their surroundings when underwater. This is usually fine as they're fed, housed, and guarded by humanoids.

Origin/Ancestry

Aquatic crustaceans

Lifespan

175 years but this is due to high turn over.

Average Height

4ft-10ft

Average Weight

175-450lbs

Average Physique

Strong

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Mostly reds and oranges with rainbow varieties of shell colors.