Duststalker (Dunarex macrathor)

Alias: None
Origin: Inland Thazvaar (deserts)

The Duststalker was an extinct, large predatory creature native to the deserts of Inland Thazvaar, known for its ambush tactics in the Infinitude Deserts. Its stealthy movements and ability to blend into dune systems made it a lethal threat to early explorers and fauna alike. Eradicated during the Fracture era (~2,000 YBM) due to imperial campaigns to secure desert routes, it was historically revered by Thazvaari tribes as a symbol of cunning and survival. Its presence once indicated stable dune ecosystems, but its extinction altered desert food chains, leaving fossil records as the primary evidence of its existence.

Lifespan

Lived 20–40 Geban years, with rapid growth in the first 5 years and peak predatory activity thereafter. Reached maturity at 10 Geban years before eradication.

Uses

• Hunt records: Fossils and bones used by Thazvaari tribes as trophies, symbolizing mastery over the desert.
• Ecological role: Controlled desert fauna populations, maintaining balance in dune ecosystems before extinction.
• Cultural symbol: Represented cunning in Thazvaari lore, with hides used in ritual garments.
• Guidance: Watch fossil sites for dune instability; avoid during seismic activity to prevent collapse.

Notes

Eradication during the Fracture (~2,000 YBM) stabilized desert routes but disrupted Inland Thazvaar’s food chains, leading to overpopulation of smaller fauna. Fossil sites remain valuable for ecological studies but are hazardous during seismic events due to unstable dunes. Expedition teams should use sensors to detect buried remains and avoid excavation during dust storms. Range was limited to Thazvaar’s deserts, restricting ecological impact to arid biomes.