Zitiron (SciiFii)

The zitiron (Mareques turtur), also known as the knight-turtle, the sea-knight, and, inaccurately, the knightfish, is a species of turtle that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the Mediterranean Sea to boost biodiversity. Derived from sea turtles, it possesses several unique morphological features. These include atrophied hind limbs, a somewhat fish-like tail, grasping claws, and eyes that are protected from predators by being placed underneath the animal's heavily armoured skull and have bony structures within the eyes for defense. Zitirons also possess rather high intelligence, and are known for utilizing stones, driftwood, coral, and various forms of debris, both natural and manmade, to beat away predators, methodically targeting areas that cause pain to the aggressor. Despite this, the zitirons are peaceful herbivores that, when left to their own, seldom harm any animal that does not first try to harm them. Once every two years, zitirons feel the urge to mate, and gather en masse on the shorelines of the Mediterranean areas to breed. The males mate with as many females as they can. The females then lay their eggs on the beaches, and unlike most turtles, guard them for a few weeks before leaving. The conservation status of the zitiron is Vulnerable due to illegal harvest and trade of their eggs, however, thanks to the conservationists, the zitiron is a protected species.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii