Necroworm

Necroworms can be found underground, in rock tunnels of their own making. Giant scavenger beasts that feast on rotting flesh and decay, they are not considered very dangerous by locals unless, of course, you are undead. Quite solitary, necroworms tend to navigate by tunneling through solid rock, creating meandering networks of perfectly circular pathways.
Necroworms were domesticated by Zilvran society a few centuries ago. Though some wild necroworms still exist, most of them are now used as waste disposable for entire cities. Necrofarms, the places responsible for breeding and herding the worms, are sent all animal and plant matter for disposal. This includes most garbages, sewer content, and refuse, but also corpses, both humanoid and animal. This process is seen as part of the cycle of life and is part of Zilvran culture, since it optimizes waste management and avoids many problems caused by the underground life. The largest necrofarms, located near Gordivas, can contain up to 50 necroworms and process the waste of entire spires of the capital. In isolated underdark communities, it is not rare for a farmer to own 1 or 2 necroworms and to charge the community for the use of their animals.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Necroworms have a large cylindrical body with no limbs. They are covered in sharp light-reflective scales, which are usually dark purple, blue or green. Both extremities end in a large gaping mouth of razor-like teeth (which are slightly tilted forward to help suction and picking).

Dietary Needs and Habits

Necroworms feed on recently-deceased cadavers and most forms of natural decay. Initially a scavenger, necroworms are not in the habit of attacking preys, rather feeding on their remnants, do not require regular meals to maintain themselves, though their size makes the amount of carcass consumed quite impressive.

Lifespan

10-15 years

Average Weight

In the wild: 5 tons Domesticated: 8 tons

Average Length

In the wild: 50 feet Domesticated: 40 feet