Post by Figment on May 17, 2013 3:26:25 GMT
Etymology:
The name Venamari is comprised of the latin venatoris, or hunter, and mari, or ocean, loosely translating to "hunter of the sea". This is derived from the cats' predatory nature and their general preference for aquatic surroundings.
Description:
Venamari vary greatly in appearance, though all share the most common characteristics of an overall feline appearance. A dorsal fin and fluke allow the cats for easier movement through their generally aquatic environment. These creatures are very strong swimmers and well-adapted to life in the water.
Similar to that of a muskrat, these cats have adapted the ability to create a nearly vacuum-seal over the ear canal by flattening their ears against their skull during submersion. Their fur tends toward a very silk-like feel, it being nearly water-proof to maintain body heat during extended submersions. Expanded lung capacity allows the Venamari to remain submerged for up to a full hour before needing to resurface, though it is rare that they will remain to such an extent.
These cats range in size from 3 pounds to 15 pounds, generally, though some may become larger. Most grow no larger than 25 centimeters in height. This is not a strict standard, however, and some 'large' cats may be seen in the species.
Behavior:
Venamari are predatory creatures and will stalk most smaller animals, finding them to be easily manageable prey. They are typically solitary creatures, however become easily bonded to a caretaker. Once bonded, they become faithful companions and will often accompany their caretakers everywhere.
Primarily diurnal, the cats tend to be fairly flexible in their sleep schedule and will often change this schedule to better suit their hunting needs.
Reproduction:
As the cats were not created to be domestic pets, they are infertile. Though they do have the instinct and drive for reproduction, all generations are lab-created. Instinctually, these creatures are more similar to their feline ancestry and will mate in such a way, however there is no purpose to the act as far as progeny is concerned.
Alternative to the natural reproduction, the lab that initially created the Venamari offer a 'breeding' program on occasion. During such occasions, the scientists gather genetic material from prospective parents to engineer offspring.
Functionality:
The function of these creatures vary by size, from an 'alarm' of sorts to a beast of burden. The smaller of the species will typically be used as a companion for divers, alerting them to the presence of danger, whereas the larger of the cats may be used in exploration of wreckages to assist in hauling recovered items to the surface.
Recently, however, their purpose has deviated as the Venamari have become coveted as pets rather than animal assistants.
The name Venamari is comprised of the latin venatoris, or hunter, and mari, or ocean, loosely translating to "hunter of the sea". This is derived from the cats' predatory nature and their general preference for aquatic surroundings.
Description:
Venamari vary greatly in appearance, though all share the most common characteristics of an overall feline appearance. A dorsal fin and fluke allow the cats for easier movement through their generally aquatic environment. These creatures are very strong swimmers and well-adapted to life in the water.
Similar to that of a muskrat, these cats have adapted the ability to create a nearly vacuum-seal over the ear canal by flattening their ears against their skull during submersion. Their fur tends toward a very silk-like feel, it being nearly water-proof to maintain body heat during extended submersions. Expanded lung capacity allows the Venamari to remain submerged for up to a full hour before needing to resurface, though it is rare that they will remain to such an extent.
These cats range in size from 3 pounds to 15 pounds, generally, though some may become larger. Most grow no larger than 25 centimeters in height. This is not a strict standard, however, and some 'large' cats may be seen in the species.
Behavior:
Venamari are predatory creatures and will stalk most smaller animals, finding them to be easily manageable prey. They are typically solitary creatures, however become easily bonded to a caretaker. Once bonded, they become faithful companions and will often accompany their caretakers everywhere.
Primarily diurnal, the cats tend to be fairly flexible in their sleep schedule and will often change this schedule to better suit their hunting needs.
Reproduction:
As the cats were not created to be domestic pets, they are infertile. Though they do have the instinct and drive for reproduction, all generations are lab-created. Instinctually, these creatures are more similar to their feline ancestry and will mate in such a way, however there is no purpose to the act as far as progeny is concerned.
Alternative to the natural reproduction, the lab that initially created the Venamari offer a 'breeding' program on occasion. During such occasions, the scientists gather genetic material from prospective parents to engineer offspring.
Functionality:
The function of these creatures vary by size, from an 'alarm' of sorts to a beast of burden. The smaller of the species will typically be used as a companion for divers, alerting them to the presence of danger, whereas the larger of the cats may be used in exploration of wreckages to assist in hauling recovered items to the surface.
Recently, however, their purpose has deviated as the Venamari have become coveted as pets rather than animal assistants.