|
In-Game Information[]
A specially evolved Leviathan with a sleek, lithe body. Mizutsune can secrete a peculiar fluid that covers its foes in immobilizing bubbles. Once its foe's movement is impaired, it closes in with spry, dance-like movements.
Taxonomy[]
- Order: Leviathan
- Suborder: Sea Beast Wyvern
- Infraorder: Bubble Fox Wyvern
- Family: Mizutsune
Mizutsune is a recently discovered species of Leviathan that resembles a sacred beast found in Yukumo Village's legends. Mizutsune are closely related to Almudron, although most of their similarities (namely their claws and tails) are easily missed without further inspection.
Habitat Range[]
Mizutsune have been identified living in the Misty Peaks, Primal Forest, Jungle, Sacred Pinnacle and Tower in the Old World.
Ecological Niche[]
Mizutsune are carnivorous in nature, feeding mainly on fish and other small prey. However, Mizutsune are known to feed on larger prey occasionally like Kelbi. Though Mizutsune are capable predators, they must compete with other large predatory monsters like Zinogre, Astalos, Lagiacrus, Nargacuga, and Plesioth.
Biological Adaptions[]
Mizutsune's most unique adaption is its ability to produce bubbles. It is able to produce the bubbles by using special fluid secretions, produced from its own body along with water, and rubbing its hairs in the secretions. These stiff yet soft purple hairs are found on its chest, tail, legs, and sides. The hairs are used for sliding on the fluids it produces, spreading the fluids, and even using the fluids to produce more bubbles. Mizutsune can also breath these bubbly fluids from its mouth. It is known to use the bubbles it produces both offensively and defensively in battle. It uses the bubbles to help it move faster and to make it more flexible in battle, while simultaneously impeding the movement of any foes. In order to stop itself quickly while moving, Mizutsune has special hook-like claws that allow it to stop sliding quickly to face threats and not leave itself open. Despite Mizutsune's strange appearance, the fins it has actually act as receptors for detecting the presence of predators and prey coming through vibrations in the secretions. Like a snake, Mizutsune's teeth are recurved to prevent prey from escaping easily. Its jaws are even designed like a snake to an extent, even being able to open its mouth wide and swallow some large prey.
Behavior[]
Mizutsune are rather calm in nature until provoked. They prefer to be left alone resting near large bodies of water, while covered in their special secretions. They prefer to avoid confrontations. However, they will defend themselves if they need to. Once a threat has left, Mizutsune won't chase after the threat but will instead let it go. Though Mizutsune are usually calm, they are known to turn aggressive during Breeding Season. Mizutsune become aggressive or even berserk during their Breeding Season. In this season, it is not a good idea to go fishing for they are known to injure people due to their blind rage. Male Mizutsune have large fins and are able to flash their fins red to show emotion to the female Mizutsune, in order to attract them.