Species showcase #1: Kydians

The planet Kydia is a low gravity terrestrial world. It’s continental plates are concentrated in one central land mass. This single continent is dominated by several species of tall, narrow-trunked trees, which grow out in a diverse pattern of narrow branches. This loose, twisted network form canopies well above the ground, creating interlocking layers that serve as the host for an incredibly complex series of ecosystems. This airborne labyrinth of tree branches was the original home of the sentient species that came to call themselves “Kydians.”

Kydians are short, thin creatures with physiques optimized for climbing, swinging, and leaping through their native forest environment. Their lightweight frame, powerful arms, handlike feet, and prehensile tail allow them to soar through their native forests, chasing the insects that compose the majority of Kydian diets. Their long, swept back ears can pull and rotate, allowing them to find the origin of a sound and amplify it. The antennae concealed in these long ears transmit and receive radio waves, allowing instant and soundless communication regarding sources of danger and coordination of movements among a pack.

Like all life on the planet Kydia, Kydians are hermaphroditic, each Kydian both giving and receiving reproductive fluids during intercourse, and both participants (or in some cases, all participants) becoming pregnant. coupling is the typical rule, but some cultures have and still do mate in larger groups.In nearly all cultures, family bonds are respected significantly.

In Kydian culture post interstellar travel, communication is as much verbal as antennae based. Technical information more easily passed using verbal communication, while emotional awareness, deep connections, and stirring personal appeals are much clearer and seem more sincere when transmitted.

Continued later.