Merfolk

Merfolk is the collective term for mermaids and mermen. Merfolk have the head and torso of a human or other humanoid race, and usually have the tail of a type of fish, but can also have the tail of whales, dolphins, and other aquatic life. They are a playful race like the fairies, and typically only surface to sing or enchant those foolish enough to listen.
Selkie are merfolk who have seal tails, and can transform into a full seal or full human at will. They live farther north than their cousins.
Cecaelia are a race of men or women who have octopus tentacles instead of a tail, and are often less kind or more devious than their counterparts.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Merfolk are human from the waist up, and fish or other aquatic animal from the waist down. They can breathe on land or in water, having both gills, just under their ears, and lungs. Merfolk prefer to be in the water, however.

Genetics and Reproduction

Merfolk reproduce sexually.

Ecology and Habitats

Merfolk live underwater, and prefer warmer or tropical waters. Selkie prefer to live in colder waters, and cecaelia live at greater depths than most merfolk.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Mermaids are omnivores, and have no particular food preference.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Merfolk can sometimes have additional fins on the side of their head.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Global

Average Intelligence

Human or higher

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

• Echolocation
• Magic Detection
• Musical Hypnosis: If the merperson plays an instrument instead.
• Siren Song: Merpeoples’ primary magic is in their voice, namely through song. Some choose to play instruments instead, and achieve the same effect. A merfolk song can lure even those with the strongest will into the briny depths below.

Civilization and Culture

Average Technological Level

Merfolk are close to devils in terms of in technological advancements.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Mermish

Common Dress Code

There's no code of dress, but usually merfolk will wear very little or in the case of males, nothing at all. Most clothing would limit their speed and mobility in the water, so the bare minimum of modesty is usually acceptable.

Common Myths and Legends

Mermaids in particular are the subject of many myths, most of which involve a mermaid either taking those they lure below the surface, never to be seen again, or a mermaid falling in love with a human, giving up their old life in the process. To the merfolk, most of these are silly, but they sometimes use them to their advantage.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Mermaids love most other races' company, and enjoy talking with them. They do not trust the inhabitants of Hell or any "darker" variations of a race.

Scientific Name

Homo sapiens aquatica

Lifespan

60-80 years

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Average Height

5-6 feet (152-183cm)

Average Weight

170-200 lbs (77-91 kg)