Triddera

Spinopodus sapiens

BIOLOGY
Triddera are large, powerful herbivores. At first glance, they vaguely resemble terrestrial dinosaurs; however, their eyes are located just above their forelimbs, and they possess a long spike in place of their hind legs. This spike normally supports the weight of the Triddera's back half, but can be lifted off the ground to allow Triddera to move more quickly. The chests and "necks" of Triddera are heavily armored, acting as protection both against predators and the thorned plants which Triddera feed on. Although Triddera are hermaphroditic, larger individuals traditionally bear the young, whereas smaller individuals care for them.

CULTURE
Triddera are one of the few herbivorous sophonts known, and they are certainly the most widespread and powerful. However, they are universally afflicted by an intense form of xenophobia. Their ancestors were extremely aggressive herbivores that were preyed upon by a wide variety of predators, and this has given the Triddera an instinctive dislike for species other than themselves. This permeates every level of their culture; Triddera are generally considered to be the most hostile race in known space, especially when it comes to dealing with carnivorous species. Triddera are also intensely social; they always travel with their immediate family. This has presented a problem when it comes to diplomatic relations. One Triddera is dangerous, but a group is a potential disaster. Most species use either the Machines or another herbivorous species as an intermediary when dealing with Triddera.