arakhs

Arakhs are a fictional species native to the planet Arrakis in Frank Herbert's Dune universe. They are massive, segmented, worm-like creatures that inhabit the deep deserts of Arrakis. Arakhs are incredibly long-lived, with some individuals estimated to be thousands of years old. Their immense size and prodigious appetites make them a significant force in the planet's ecosystem.

These creatures are adapted to survive in the harsh desert environment. They possess a highly developed sense of vibration, allowing them to detect movement across vast distances. Their primary diet consists of spice, a psychoactive substance found only on Arrakis, which is essential for their life cycle and also plays a crucial role in the development of the Arakhs' own biology. The spice is ingested in large quantities by the Arakhs, and its metabolism within their bodies is what produces the spice's valuable properties.

The life cycle of an Arakh involves several stages, beginning as a small sand-plankton that eventually grows into a mature sandworm. Due to their size and the danger they pose, Arakhs are often referred to as "shai-hulud" by the native Fremen, a term of reverence and respect. The Fremen have developed unique methods to survive and even utilize the Arakhs, such as riding them across the desert. The presence and behavior of the Arakhs are intrinsically linked to the ecology and politics of Arrakis, making them a central element of the Dune saga.