Zora

Basic Information

Anatomy

Zora have the same number of limbs and a similar skeletal structure to Hylians but are capable of living underwater and have significant fishlike qualities. Their faces are usually not overtly humanoid, with larger eyes, and olfactory slits and auditory membranes instead of noses and ears. Some have elongated "tails" on the back of their heads, or other crests and ridges.

Biological Traits

Zora can both breathe air and filter oxygen from water, and are classified as amphibious. On average, they are shorter than the average Hylian, but their outliers can be very tall. The species is primarily divided into two races, Sea Zora and River Zora. Both races have the ability to filter oxygen from the opposite salinity, it's just a bit more difficult.

Genetics and Reproduction

Zora are not mammals and give birth to their children in jelly-like egg membranes, which then spend months incubating. They only have one child at a time.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Zora are pescatarian, with a wide diet of vegetables and grains that excludes meat besides fish and seafood. They also consume certain algae and other seaweeds not typical to the other sapient species.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Zora are most predominant in the Lanayru and Necluda provinces and in the southeastern reaches of Greater Hyrule, near Lake Hylia. They favor areas with consistent sources of water and are found in fewer areas of the country than other species due to their dependence on it and lack of physical tolerance for more aggressive biomes.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Zora have poor vision and many wear glasses when out of the water. However, when in the water, they have exceptional hearing and sense of smell.

Civilization and Culture

Common Etiquette Rules

Zora are finicky about manners and children are taught fairly strict rules of etiquette from a young age. However, among youths and Zora living outside of the Domain, there's a prevalent "punk" movement.

Common Dress Code

Zora don't naturally wear clothing, as the weather in their natural habitats is fairly temperate and Zora skin is sensitive to most textiles. However, outside of the Domain, differing climates and social pressure cause Zora to wear clothing made out of "swimsuit" material. AFAB Zora have no breasts, but Zora women are still less likely to go topless when living in a Hylian-dominated area than men.

Historical Figures

Ruto, Sage of Water and Mipha, Champion of Vah Ruta

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Zora coexist peacefully with the other species of Hyrule, and it is not unheard of for them to enter interspecies marriages. Some Zora are a little "snooty" towards those who cannot live underwater, although this is something that is often overexaggerated and made into a stereotype.

Lifespan

150

Conservation Status

Despite being fully sapient and autonomous, the Zora are actually technically a protected species. This is due to their dependence on water environments to remain non-polluted and habitable.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Zora are typically green or blue in color, with some developing an indigo cast and others closer to brown. Their backs and the backs of their limbs are typically darker than their fronts. Some have patterns of spots and patches of darker colors, while others are completely smooth. Children tend to have patterns similar to those of their parents.

Related Ethnicities

• River Zora
• Sea Zora