Roofback

The roofback replaced its ancestor. With the success of the stride sauceback the remaining swift saucebacks were put under pressure, not only from the competition but also the dangers of the coastlines (tides, storms, ocean predators).

They have become more defensive. They live in greater packs (10-15); like their cousin they distinguish by smell. They are more loosely grouped and use their numbers primarily as protection from attackers. They have a larger shell for extra protection. They use their shell as a means of hunting camouflage, pretending to be a rock before ambushing prey. They can also work as a team, shielding each other while they advance on their prey. They have longer hook teeth and a more flexible tail to defend and attack with.

Individuals live about 12 years. Reproduction is the same as their ancestor. However, the larvae are born with little claws and soft bodies. The larvae will then climb onto the shells of either parent, and be carried around by the parent until they mature. The inner surface on the shell has a feather lining, which the larvae can latch onto. The enclosed space traps moisture, so the larva are in no danger of dehydrating. When the parent feeds, the larva will climb off and eat as well. A larva will mature after 5 months from hatching, and become ready to mate after another year.