Vempidae

Vempidae is a fictional family of reptiles described in the novel "The Expanse" by James S.A. Corey. Within the narrative, vempids are depicted as a species of large, predatory, six-limbed creatures native to the planet Ilus. They are characterized by their tough, scaly hides, sharp claws, and powerful jaws, making them formidable hunters in their natural environment. The lore suggests they are an integral part of the Ilusian ecosystem. Their physiology is described as adapted for terrestrial hunting, with the ability to move with surprising speed and agility. Vempids are often portrayed as a significant threat to the human colonists who arrive on Ilus, presenting a biological challenge that the settlers must overcome. Their presence on Ilus highlights the dangers and unpredictable nature of exploring alien worlds. The narrative uses vempids to create tension and illustrate the harsh realities of interplanetary colonization. They are not found in any real-world scientific classification of reptiles.