Achinian Dragon

Achinian Dragons are elongated, four-limbed dragons that are native to Achinia and the surrounding area. These dragons are very prominent in Ahinian culture, where they are believed to bring good luck.

## Biology

Achinian Dragons measure approximately 0.6 m in length, and weigh approximately 7 kg on average.

### Anatomy

Achinian Dragons have several adaptations that allow them to be proficient swimmers. Their bones are mostly hollow, and are filled with air by respiratory sacs when the dragon breathes. This, along with lighter scales than any other species of dragon, cause Achinian Dragons weigh significantly less than their size would imply.

Achinian Dragons have also adapted to become more streamlined, reducing hydrodynamic drag making it easier for them to travel through water.

There are two long nasal barbels located under the nostrils of Achinian Dragons. The barbels are made of ossified tissue with internal blood vessels and myelinated nerves that allow Achinian Dragons to detect objects and minor temperature changes in the water around them. The bases and central regions of these barbels have muscle tissue, allowing limited movement that aids in prey manipulation. Achinian Dragons use their barbels in water with low visibility to detect enzymes and changes in the water around them, as well as to identify whether objects are prey or possible sources of danger.

## Behavior

In contrast to most other species of dragon, Achinian Dragons are much less aggressive or territorial, instead showing curious and more peaceful tendencies. This is likely due to Achinian Dragons primarily living in rivers or lakes with few natural predators.

### Activity

Achinian Dragons are most active during sunrise and sunset, with slightly lower amounts of activity during the daytime. This is primarily due to the changing light levels triggering feeding behavior in the prey of Achinian Dragons, meaning that this prey is more likely to be exposed and vulnerable.

### Hunting and Feeding

The primary prey of Achinian Dragons are fish, especially freshwater fish. Achinian Dragons will generally lie in wait for a fish to swim close, and will then grab the fish with either the mouth or claws. On rare occasions, Achinian Dragons will actively hunt fish. It is not currently understood what prompts Achinian Dragons to change their typical hunting behavior during these occasions.

### Sociability

In the wild, Achinian Dragons tend to travel in pairs or groups of three. For this reason, Achinian Dragons form close bonds with those in their small groups, and will often share food or resources with other Achinian Dragons. Domestic Achinian Dragons display similar behavior, occasionally presenting prey to their human owners.

Achinian Dragons will often collect smooth or shiny river stones, and keep them as a "hoard". The reason for this is unknown, but is likely tied to the curious nature of Achinian Dragons. Occasionally, domestic Achinian Dragons will offer one of these stones to their human owners in similar ways to the presentation of prey mentioned above.

## Ecology

### Habitat

Achinian Dragons almost entirely live in or near freshwater rivers and lakes in Achinia. In these areas, Achinian Dragon nests are generally located near these freshwater sources, but out of view, such as behind waterfalls.

## In Achinian Culture

In Achinian culture, Achinian Dragons are believed to be a sign of good luck and fortune. Depictions of Achinian Dragons are commonly found on pottery, tapestries, and other forms of artwork. Achinian Dragons are also seen as symbols of peace, and to kill or significantly injure an Achinian Dragon is viewed as a sign of bad luck.