| Branth | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| |||
| General information | |||
| Universe | BattleTech | ||
| Classification | Flying reptile | ||
| Homeworld | Lopez | ||
| Intelligence | Non-sapient | ||
| Biochemistry | Carbon-based | ||
| Biological information | |||
| Reproduction | Sexual, oviparous | ||
| Average height | 600 cm (19'8.22") | ||
| Average weight | 720 kg (1,584 lbs) | ||
| Locomotion | Bipedal and flying | ||
| Feeding behavior | Carnivorous | ||
| Lineage information | |||
| Related species | Lesser branth | ||
| Cultural information | |||
| Sociocultral characteristics | |||
| Scientific taxonomy | |||
| Domain | Eukaryota | ||
| Kingdom | Animalia | ||
| Phylum | Chordata | ||
| Subphylum | Vertebrata | ||
| Class | Reptilia | ||
| Order | Squamata | ||
| Suborder | Iguania | ||
| Family | Agamidae | ||
| Subfamily | Draconinae | ||
| Genus | Draco | ||
| Species | D. animalis | ||
| Subspecies | D. n. lopecis | ||
| Other information | |||
| Status | Endangered | ||
The branth (Draco animalis lopecis) is a fictional gliding lizard originating from BattleTech.
Description[]
They were described as "living dragons" straight out of the mythologies of old Terra (Earth). They have large leathery wings, scaly hides, and sharp teeth suggesting a carnivorous diet. Despite the fact that they can't breathe fire, they can spit a poisonous substance that can cause allergic reactions in humans.
Branths can be tamed and trained to carry 1-2 riders in the air. Some are trained as show animals that preform spectacular flights or act as dragons in many holovid productions. People who keep trained branths make sure to restrict interactions with specially trained keepers. Even though they may be tame, their size and strength can make them very dangerous. Branths can cause heavy damage to people and light BattleMechs. An enraged branth can be deadly.
Multiple attempts have been made to export branths to other planets, but all have been unsuccessful because they are highly susceptible to diseases. However, in 3067, many immune system boosters were available to branth owners, and exported branths became more likely to survive. Despite this, branths didn't survive off of Lopez.
BranthKeepers, a conservation program dedicated to protecting branths from extinction, protects branths and their environments so that branths don't go extinct. This may mean that branths are an endangered species.
Typically, branths are seen alone, with larger groups limited to a mating pair and newborns. After a year, young branths split away from their family and the entire family becomes solitary.
Branths are usually used as mounts for infantry units. The Branth Irregulars are an example of this.