Kitterpillar Unaligned
Microfallax felinus
Furred Bugs
Kitterpillars are a species unique to Merlot, and can typically be found all over its surface. They are plentiful, usually-docile creatures that often times do not exceed 6in in height. They are the perfect companions, and a beloved creature the world over.
They are herbivores of the unique classification Microfallax felinus. Their unique nature and build makes them unable to be accurately compared to creatures of the real world, however they resemble weasels closely in body shape... if you ignore the many sets of arms.
Behavior
Their role as pint-sized herbivores means that most kitterpillars tend towards skittish personalities. As a result of familiarity with other species, though, most kitterpillars are friendly towards the sentient species of Merlot, with some exceptions.
Diet
Kitterpillars are obligate herbivores. They are often kept as pets, however, which means that a majority of them are used to consuming whatever food is handed to them by their owners.
The kitterpillar digestive system and dentition are equipped more for dealing with meat than plants, as a result kitterpillars require massive amounts of food and are prone to sleep often to conserve energy.
Domestication
Kitterpillars can be domesticated easily, as the majority of them have already been socialized around the sentient species of the planet. The most common domesticated species of kitterpillar is the tomentosum subspecies.
Domestic kitterpillars still usually must be handled with care, as their fur is often bristly, spiky, or in some cases, even irritating to the touch.
Life Cycle
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Subspecies
Echinata
Common name: Spiny kitterpillars
Characteristics:
- long bodies and faces
- sharp bristles across the body
Temperament: excitable, active, good companions
Echinatum kitterpillars are the tallest and longest of their kind. They tend to be the most witty and resourceful, and are content to live in any conditions. Though fine on their own, they tend to "pair up" whether with another of their kind or with another species. This pairing always yields the most emotionally and physically fit of the echinata, and this bond does not need to be romantic in any way. Echinata are commonly found in a "waiting" posture, body upright and front arms tucked in as if waiting for a command.
Crassum
Common name: Cave kitterpillars
Characteristics:
- stout, thick, small/compact bodies
- less fluffy
- tinier ears
- dark colors, sometimes with bright bioluminescent accents
Temperament: lethargic, relaxed, patient
Crassa are the smallest of their kind, next to virosus kitterpillars. They are lethargic, slow-moving creatures that are extremely hardy and tend to thrive in even dismal conditions. They often tend to sleep most of the day away, and are quite fond of burrowing into dirt... or blankets. They tend to be the most disliked, however they are loyal and dependable to those who treat them well.
Elegans
Common name: Fancy kitterpillars
Characteristics:
- bright colors
- showy
- tend to be iridescent
- long, trailing bristles
Temperament: fussy, finicky
Elegantia are the most showy and beautiful of their kind, admired for their beautiful "whiskers" and silky, iridescent fur. They tend to be incredibly fussy creatures that tend to not fight, and prefer to groom and tend to their habitat. They're not particularly durable or strong, and tend to be high-maintenance. They're known for their impulsive and finicky nature, a great attitude comes with their top-notch looks.
Tomentosum
Common name: Common kitterpillars
Characteristics:
- the softest of kitterpillars
- six legs
- typically colored naturally (whites, greys, browns, blacks)
Temperament: friendly, talkative, playful, curious
Tomentosa kitterpillars are the most common... but it doesn't make them any less unique or beloved. They're very good companions with soft fur and they love to play and explore!
Virosum
Common name: Toxic kitterpillars
Characteristics:
- small, even for their species
- tend to be toxic in varying degrees
- sharp spines all over
Temperament: fearless, independent
Virosi kitterpillars are the tiny, yet daring warriors of their kind. Their fearless and competitive nature means they're prone to aggression, and they have quite the nasty venom to match their personalities.