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Echinapes

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Relatives of the Hadropithecoids ([link]) and Parrot Ape ([link] and [link]). The echinocephalid phenotype has emerged on multiple Xenopithecoid-seeded worlds, and thus is likely a hard-coded genetic trait. Alternately, it may simply represent convergent adaptation to similar environments--notably, all Echinapes are either amphibious or fully aquatic. Regardless of origins, the Echinapes' distinctive cranial morphology and its manner of behavioral exploitation has earned this loosely allied group the collective informal nickname of "periscope apes."

This head design was loosely based on a Peruvian jumping stick ([link]) I saw at the Woodland Park Zoo the other day. I liked the idea of applying such a bizarre head form to a primate. I wanted to show two basic variants here--traditionally furry, and smooth 'n hairless. For some reason the hairy ones look happier; maybe because they're not cold and wet. (Though certainly the hairless variants look fairly well insulated.)

You know, it seems like all I can draw lately is these really rough little sketches; that's why I've been posting almost exclusively to my Scrapbook (which is probably where these will eventually end up). I don't know whether I should be worried about that or not, but even if I should, I don't think worrying would help, so why bother?
:shrug:
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M0AI's avatar
Echinapes, as in...echinoderms?
Very nice shapes and forms with these. The top right one reminds me very strongly of an algae-grazing reef fish, like a surgeonfish or butterflyfish. The high eyes and the probing mouthparts are very similar. The top left one is also a very nice assemblage of features; his mouth reminds me of King Louis from "The Jungle Book.":D The bottom left one has some great forms on its periscope stalk, while the lower right one has a somewhat froglike look about it, complete with that stern, humorless expression.
Also, I see that Mr. Bridgman was kind enough to do a study of one of their arms for you.:)