Chumboids

Chumboids (Caetus Srilin), often named Shark-dogs, are a species of the shark genus Caetus. They are found in most tropical waters but mostly off the south coast of Erfar. They are highly intelligent, inquisitive and friendly, and so have been tamed by the Ura and Yen as pets.

Biology and Behaviour
Chumboids live up to 40 years and in this time they can grow up to 1.5 metres (4.5 feet) in length. They mostly feed on shoals of small fish which are found bountifully in the oceans, but sometimes they expand their diet to squid and small mammals. They breath through gills but can hold their breath above water for over an hour. Chumboids shoal in certain areas in Summer, once every two years to breed. Unlike most fish, they give birth to live young and rear their offspring for the six months of their youth. An average female rears 10 offspring in their lifespan.

Relationship with Sentients
Chumboids are used for many purposes by both the Ura and Yen, from communication: by tying waterproof messages to their dorsal fin, to aid with fishing, by shoaling fish towards the nets. Yen use them to pull their carriages across oceans. Once they reach the coast, they let free the Unicorns or Boars that had been pulling them and summon the Sharks using magical whistles. Chumboids can hear their sentient brother or sister's call from thousands of miles away. The bond between Yen especially and pet is strong. When a Chumboid dies, a full funeral is held and it is called an Yen's first death. Cuddly Chumboids, as pictured are a common toy among Young Ura.