Cipactin (Sg. Cipactli, Cipactli maritimum) are a species of amphibious Chimera.
.anatomy
Cipactin have a reptilian body plan, reaching ~6 m in length, 50% of which is their tail. They are bipedal, possessing only one pair of legs, with a shoulder height of 2 m. Their have forward-facing eyes near the nasal region, and a large mouth filled with numerous small, sharp teeth. Along the full length of their bodies and on their limbs are numerous frills, spines, and fin-like appendages, along with vent-like openings running the entire length of their bodies. While the colouration of their scales is dark blue and black, their frills are bright, usually around the orange spectrum. When healthy, their joints produce a distinctive grinding noise when moving. The colour of their Phlogiston is orange.
.behaviour
Cipactin are highly social, forming large herds composed of multiple family bands, each family consisting ~20 individuals, of which 1 matriarch and her breeding/guard male, 2-4 subordinate males, with the rest being females and their offspring.
.abilities
The vent-like openings along a Cipactli’s body can expel Phlogiston at high pressures, granting it rapid propulsion through water, reaching a maximum speed of 70 km/h. The shape of their head and their tail, which functions as a rudder, also help with water navigation. Other node clusters are located through their frills, through which they can expel Phlogiston in a large area around them. These same frills are also highly vascularised and permit respiration through diffusion, although this form of breathing is less efficient for intensive activity.
On land, Cipactin are surprisingly mobile. Their limbs are thick and muscular, allowing them to support three times their weight, the tail acting as a counter-balance, and casually gallop at ~60 km/h. Their forepaws are also highly dexterous, which aids in climbing and traversing rough terrain.
.reproduction
Cipactin reproduce sexually. Females lay 1-2 eggs, collectively guarded by the entire family band. After reaching maturity, males will compete to become the breeding male of other family bands. Bachelors will remain independent and will attempt again during the next mating season.
.diet
Cipactin are omnivorous, with a big percentage of their diet consisting of aquatic flora.