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Description
One prominent insect of the sand-seas is the Sandstroker. A genetically modified Sand-groper Cricket, the Sandstroker is a good deal larger than its ancestor, and while still somewhat omnivorous, has a greater preference for hunting other insects. These finger-sized sand-swimming insects can move fairly swiftly through the sand with their spade-like forelimbs and paddle-like legs. They mostly feed on other insects, including sand-nugget roaches and other sand-dwelling insects, but they supplement their diet and water supply by gnawing the roots of arid-adapted plants. Despite being a predator in its own right, Sandsharks and Golden Moles actively hunt these insects, as do the Desert-dwelling tribes of Nea, who have perfected the method of luring them to the surface. A small piece of bait is placed on the end of a string, and a scoop-ended stick is held at the ready, the bait is dragged and wriggled over the surface of the sand. When there is a bite on the bait, the Sandgroper is pulled out and scooped up. This "Sand-fishing" has become a popular and fruitful pastime, as a handful of Sandstrokers can form the basis of a nutritious meal, being comparatively rich in protein and fat. Indeed, many Nean people simply call them by the colloquial name "Sand-prawn".

Another entry for 's Nea contest. The concept and designs of Nea belong to Joschua Knuppe.

Description
One prominent insect of the sand-seas is the Sandstroker. A genetically modified Sand-groper Cricket, the Sandstroker is a good deal larger than its ancestor, and while still somewhat omnivorous, has a greater preference for hunting other insects. These finger-sized sand-swimming insects can move fairly swiftly through the sand with their spade-like forelimbs and paddle-like legs. They mostly feed on other insects, including sand-nugget roaches and other sand-dwelling insects, but they supplement their diet and water supply by gnawing the roots of arid-adapted plants. Despite being a predator in its own right, Sandsharks and Golden Moles actively hunt these insects, as do the Desert-dwelling tribes of Nea, who have perfected the method of luring them to the surface. A small piece of bait is placed on the end of a string, and a scoop-ended stick is held at the ready, the bait is dragged and wriggled over the surface of the sand. When there is a bite on the bait, the Sandgroper is pulled out and scooped up. This "Sand-fishing" has become a popular and fruitful pastime, as a handful of Sandstrokers can form the basis of a nutritious meal, being comparatively rich in protein and fat. Indeed, many Nean people simply call them by the colloquial name "Sand-prawn".

Another entry for 's Nea contest. The concept and designs of Nea belong to Joschua Knuppe.