Orchit

Rabbits of unusual forms, colors and sizes can be seen throughout The Gates in any biome. A variety of different adaptations and silly names can be found during a tourist's travels, and this particular rabbit is referred to as an "Orchit". An orchit is an amalgum of plant and rabbit, particular orchid and rabbit. It was discovered by Kaswink on Nurend 07, 308 while she was out hunting for unusual game.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Similar to a rabbit as they have longer haunches and feet that bend together providing powerful hops and kicks, can also walk and perform other methods of locomotion like any other rabbit. Where it differs, however, is in its very large eyes which take up most of its face. Their eyes are mostly glossy black, though a very thin, flower-shaped, lavender “iris” of sorts is visible midway between the center and outer edge of the eye which is otherwise solid black. Their ears seem mostly similar to a rabbits as they are long and can either standup straight or droop to either side. These ears are different, however, in that they do taper off and grow into longer stem or vine-like appendages which are lined with small tufts of some organic material which resembles either leaves or flower pedals though they are the same color as the fur on the rest of the Orchit. At the very end of both of these vines is a flower which greatly resembles an orchid, hence the name. The vine-like appendages are indeed entirely made of plant matter after a short distance from where the ear would normally end.

Genetics and Reproduction

The flowers of this creature appear to follow a similar reproductive cycle as a regular orchid in that they are polinated by some passing insect... or perhaps a passing Orchit, and then germinate over the course of several weeks or months. The gestation period actually seems to be quicker, perhaps do to the fact that they are attached to rabbits? What grows from the fertilized seed pod is unknown, but they have been planted by DAN and only time will tell what pops out of the ground.

While stalking this creature, Kaswink did find a burrow with some younger and older rabbits. The younger rabbits still had the flower stems growing from their eartips, but there were no flowers and far fewer leaf nubs along the length of them. Their heads were mostly bald with more plant matter visible on the ears, nose, around the eyes, and the back of the head.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Their vines can be pressed and processed to yield the aromatic oils which could be used for Incense or Candles or just applied as an essential oil. They could also be dried and powdered to be used as the wood base for incense, or they could be boiled down into an infusion to be ingested. The flower/leaf nubs could also be muddled with other components to create potions. The orchid at the end of their vines is incredibly aromatic and could be used along with the stems to make a gin-like liquor. When dried, these flowers could also be blended with certain ginsengs or teas to enhance their flavors. The benefits provided by the oils in these vines could range from a simple headache cure or painkiller, to enhancing focus depending on the amount boiled and how reduced the infusion becomes. When made into a medicine, the flower/leaf nubs can be applied as a balm to rashes or other skin conditions to instantly remedy those skin ailments. Depending on the concentration they could even close wounds or perhaps more. It had a wonderful flakey meat with an almost floral taste or, at the very least, aroma that enhanced the curry it was cooked with to new heights. Additionally, the orchit meat appeared to provide increased energy for several hours which helped with construction on the cabin.

Genetic Ancestor(s)