Nyctus

Nyctus is a genus of hind-winged, syngamic Blacta species sporting adjustable spines running the length of its back to control drag and air currents. While individual shapes/sizes differ between species, each is characterized by a long membrane surrounding the pelvic area (instead of the pectoral girdle) used for flight and gliding.

Spiked Nyct
(Nyctus nyctus)

The Spiked Nyct, Nyctus nyctus, is a large carnivorous species of nyct typically residing in humid Pratorian morass. They are immediately recognizable by their forward and backward facing eyes, a long segmented "jaw" tube, and oversized hind membranous wings. These membranes facilitate not only gliding but flight as well, and it is notable for having formed over the pelvic area rather than the pectoral girdle equivalent. The spikes running the lengths of their backs are adjustable mid-flight, controlling drag and air currents as they fulfill the niche of devastating aerial predator. They reproduce strictly syngamically, often mating while still in flight. Females give birth to live young on land, making a treacherous journey down to the surface that is often fatal due to the abundance of opportunistic land predators. Young are then forced to fly right from the beginning of their lives, and those who cannot do so are promptly devoured; this natural selection ensures the species’ aerial competence. They typically grow to around 2 ft (.61 m) long and typically weigh around 15 lbs (6.8 kg). 

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