Plumed Chupaeau

About

Distantly related to the seahorse and resembling dragons, the plumed chupaeau are incredibly small, and water native species. They come in a variety of colours, but their typical coloration is always bright and saturated. Their feathered mane is always a colour different than their body. The males have a larger mane, but all the species have a slight feathering along their crown and sometimes their sides. This can be puffed up during mating season, giving them a vibrant mane and crown of feathers.
They can typically be spotted in ocean waters due to their iridescence, though some may mistake it for light hitting the water's surface.

Medicinal Use

Plumed chupaeau have been used in a medical fashion, though not the way one would expect. Plumed chupaeau are used in high end spas for magical treatment. The being's feet or entire body (depending on how much money is spent) is submerged in warm, calm waters before the Chupaeau are released into it. The chupaeau, living up to their nickname of 'Nibblies' gently eat at the dead skin of the being as well as on the invisible mana aura that surrounds all creatures. They eat the older energy and allow it to be renewed.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The plumed chupaeau have traits similar to seahorses, such as their long torso and tail, and small fins. Their face is built similar to a dragon's, tapering to a thin, rounded snout. Mixing with their scales is a large crown of feathers, with males sprouting larger manes than the females.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Plumed Chupaeau eat small plankton and fish to survive, and a secondary diet of mana allows them to have vibrant colouring. The more vibrant a plumed chupaeau the more mana it has consumed.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Used in fancy spas to help renew and relax customers. Occasionally kept as pets.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Plumed chupaeau are native to Isidoro's sea, typically living near coral reefs. Their bright colours help aid in camouflage, though the iridescence of their feathers often catches the light.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Plumed Chupaeau have a beneficial relationship with all sentient creatures they are around. Plumed Chupaeau eat mana, allowing the person's natural mana aura to replenish itself which can give a sensation of taking a satisfying nap among other positive benefits.

Scientific Name

Dracocampus plumatus

Lifespan

3-5 yrs

Average Length

2.5-10 cm