Skrak

About

Common Names

Skrak (Krolar), Muck Crawlers, Sand Devils

Classification

Annelid

Large predatory worms, They vary widely with distinct adaptions to specific biomes.

Description

Size

<--number--> kg (<--number--> pounds), 0.5-1 metre ( 2-3 feet) length

Appearance

Long tubular multi-segmented bodies, with a series of short black paddle-shaped spines at each segment. Their head has a double set of paired jaws which open wide and can be snapped shut with remarkable speed.

Variance

Skraks have a number of different sub-species each possessing adaptations to their local biomes.

Ecology

Habitat

Most species of skraks are aquatic, being found in a variety of salt, fresh or brackish water. They prefer shallow waters with a bottom consisting of loose material in which they can burrow. A few varieties of skraks are semi-terrestrial adapted to soft mud, or dwelling in loose desert sand.

Diet

Fish, amphibians, arthropods, marine annelids, reptiles, and for the terrestrial varieties, some mammals.

Behaviour

Social Grouping

Solitary

Temperament

Aggressive

Intelligence

Animal

Reproduction

Skraks are hermaphroditic and lack a specific cycle to mating.

Hunting

Skraks are typically ambush hunters burrowing under sand, mud, or loose soil and detritus leaving just the jaws exposed opened flat against the substrate. They will wait for an animal to come close enough for them to launch out of their hide and snap their jaws closed upon prey who are drawn back into the burrow to be consumed.

Sub-Species

Sand Devil

This particular sub-species of skrak is found in both the Northern and the Waejiran deserts. Their skin is a mottled pattern of sandy tones which aids with blending into their environment. Additionally this sub-species has been known to attack much larger prey, and being drawn to rhythmic vibrations. Sand Devils jaws have a small channel along their inner side which draws salvia into any wounds caused by its bite. Their saliva contains anticoagulant qualities which increase the bleeding of their prey, in this way the sand devil draws blood which they consume from their prey.

Domestication

General

None.

Resources

In some regions these creatures a hunted for food.

Stories

Balance (fifty word fantasy)

Devil (fifty word fantasy)