Cryceidel

The cryceidel is an Utlian reptile, it is an amphibious reptile and is among the largest animals endemic to Utlia.

Anatomy

Cryceidel are large, around 3 meters long on average. They have 3 rows of teeth, two sharp and one blunt row. They have gills.

Distribution

Cryceidel are originally only from the bogs of Direnomut but there is an introduced population in the capital region.

Habitat

Living in the swamps and bogs of Direnomut and the southern Capital Region, they are often seen fully or semi-submerged, this is due to their nature as ambush predators.

Ecology

Diet

The primary diet of cryceidel is fish, particularly the two-legged skipping fish, as they often unknowingly wander into ponds containing cryceidel. Despite their affinity for fish, they will eat just about anything that comes into eyeline while they are on the hunt, leading to them being considered among the most dangerous animals in Utlia.

Reproduction

Reproduction is rare for cryceidel, as they are incredibly territorial and will often maul or even end the life of potential mates. If two are bonded however they will typically release eggs in the pond they breed in, then leave eachother. The eggs hatch after one month, the babies take 10 years to reach full size and maturity.

Historical use

War

There have been multiple attempts to use cryceidel in battle, most notably during the first Merriyem uprising, when Tonnel Aremt tried to capture and release a group of them in Mersen, the plan failed and the creatures killed two RUA soldiers before being killed by the Mersenite army.