Traits

Aposematic Xeros are quite rare, and not very much is currently known about why some feature this trait. The most notable visual feature of aposematic Xeros is that their skin is a very saturated, neon color, to serve as a warning of their potential toxins.

Scientists speculate that it is a leftover adaptation from their previously insectivorous lifestyle. These Xeros may have a pair of modified saliva glands that can deliver venom through grooves in their upper canine teeth. They have complete control over these glands, and are able to produce regular saliva the majority of the time, so it does not negatively impact their lives in any way. Even Xeros who do not posses venom are immune to its affects, so there is no cause for concern! However, not all aposematic Xeros are capable of producing venom; some are merely mimics!

Aposematic Xeros can also feature neon-colored markings surrounded with a dark outline for high contrast - however, markings of this kind are optional and are not featured on all Xeros with this trait.

While size, environment, or lack of predators may influence some animals to abandon the need for countershading, with Xeros, it is just a happenstance of random mutation rather adaptation. Xeros with this mutation will be primarily a solid color, with no obvious countershading on their belly, or may have countershading that falls well outside of normal requirements.

An abundance of pigmentation has caused some Xeros to have countershading that is darker than their primary coat color. This is just a happenstance of random mutation rather than an adaptation.

Generally, a Xero's flesh is all the same color, so visible areas like the inside of their ears, tongue, nostrils, and paw pads must all be the same, but this special trait allows their skin to be different colors! It's not just limited to two colors either, each ear, paw pad, etc. could all be different colors! Each differently colored body part may only be one solid color, with the exception of any part that crosses the sagittal plane (midline) of the body, which may be split in half and half colors (tongue, pouch, or overall body skin if hairless trait is used).

This trait allows Xeros to have markings on their skin! This can include markings of any shape on their ears, paw pads, tongue, or hairless sections if combined with that trait. These markings can only be darker or lighter than their normal skin color, unless combined with the Split trait. If combined with Split, the markings can be other colors.