Name: Cantus ostiuma, "Poptops" Description: (A young Poptop and an adult Poptop.) The Poptop (Cantus ostiuma) is one of the more popular organisms prevalent through the Fringe, hailed for its beautiful song and 'cute' demeanor. The appearance of the Poptop is well known and features two distinct, long arms that seem to protrude from its head which seem to almost resemble a type of hair. At the end of these appendages are three razor-sharp, calcium carbonate claws used to help climb or to subdue its prey. Right below the arms on the head (similar to an armpit's location) is a small series of holes that act as the ears of the Poptop, allowing it selective hearing that can easily hear the song of other Poptops, a feature important for mating calls. The skin of Poptops is a thin and smooth layer of dark or pale fur, and its eyes slightly glow orange with bioluminescent light, a trait used to deter larger predators during night. The torso of the Poptop extends smoothly into a sort of skirt of skin which covers two bipedal legs that allow it to walk, sometimes with the assistance of the long arms. (Poptop anatomy. Credit to artist.) Poptops bear similar anatomy to other Terran creatures, complete with a muscular and skeletal structures; the most notable trait of the Poptop is its hidden mouth composed of several razor sharp teeth, hidden cleverly under a seam where its "hair" begins. Due to this, the Poptop parts from the standard Terran mammalian trait of having a mouth below the eyes, by actually have a mouth composed of its head. This allows it to consume large prey very quickly after luring it with a song, perhaps subduing it with its claws if needed. Its song is hypnotically beautiful, and its vocal cords are extremely advanced and even capable of speech, if it had more advanced intelligence. That is, if the Poptop is young. Rarely, one could come across an adult Poptop fully grown. These beasts rarely sing, because they are simply strong and fast enough to chase prey without it. They can even take on prey much larger than themselves by simply biting off arms or legs, and clawing with their extremely strong arms. Behavior: Poptops will nest in either trees or shallow caverns; their sharp claws and agility allow them to easily climb up a trunk and nestle itself into the thick leaves and branches. During the day they will emerge and wander, singing their song to attract prey, and then of course quickly kill it. However, Poptops tend to cease trying if their prey does not come, as their short legs are not suitable for chasing; or fleeing. Around intelligent organisms they will act the same, though typically more shy due to their "prey's" unpredictability. If their song does not work to attract them, they will shy away or attack if they get too close. They will use the environment to their advantage, especially in their native jungles; their long and strong arms are useful for climbing and swinging. Tamability: Poptops are usually wild organisms, however with a long series of careful feedings and singing, one could earn their trust. That is, Poptops have a natural tendency to trust other singers, depending on their skill. They can be trained to follow commands like a dog, and vary often in their 'personalities' as they are solitary hunters. When raised from captivity, they are especially docile and can even grow a strong bond with their owner, making them desirable pets due to their beautiful songs and loveliness. That is, when they are not feeding. Where is it found?: Poptops are mostly found inside jungles of wet climates; however, they are capable of surviving in more temperate forests, though they are truly in their element in the dense vegetation of the jungle. Rarity: Poptops are not necessarily uncommon, however they may be difficult to spot especially in the jungle as they typically hide. One could always find a Poptop however, by simply listening for the song. Older poptops are more difficult to find due to a large amount of hunting. Diet/Method of gaining nutrients and energy: Poptops are carnivorous organisms that feed using their sharp teeth and large, gaping mouths. They typically feed on prey smaller than them, though adult Poptops tend to get creative, whether it be eating larger appendages of huge creatures or simply eating an entire herd. They do not need to eat often, as one meal can last a few days; their extremely strong stomach acids quickly break down even a whole body to nourish the Poptop. Products?: Poptop claws and teeth are extremely sharp, and are often used by tribal Florans as blades for spears. Additionally, their hide is strong. Reproduction: Poptops reproduce sexually in a standard manner of sexual intercourse, and then after a period of 5 months will regurgitate a large egg from their mouths and protect it until it grows to become self-sufficient fairly quickly, in around three weeks. Size: Most Poptops (young ones) are fairly small, around 3' high (reference IG sprites). Adult Poptops however... can reach heights of even around 11'. Weight: Young Poptops typically weigh around 60 pounds, though can weigh more of course the older they are, to a cap of approximately 1000 pounds. Lifespan: Poptops can easily live to 300 terran years, in which case they grow to be their full size; most, however, die out before then from being hunted, starved, or a variety of other reasons. Abilities: - A beautiful song can lure in prey for the Poptop to kill. - Strong arms are useful for climbing, clawing, bashing, and holding down. - A large mouth with sharp teeth can consume varieties of prey nearly their size. Flaws: - Their short, bipedal legs are not suitable for fast movement when young.
