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A reconstruction of what a male vampire may have looked like
Vampires (Homo sapiens homovorus) are an extinct anthropophagous subspecies of Homo sapiens. Since their extinction, they have been embedded in the mythology and folklore of various cultures. In folklore, they acquired numerous supernatural characteristics, the most common is that they were re-animated corpses of human beings. In modern times, vampires are the frequent subject of fiction; both literally and cinematic. Their taxonomic name, "Homo sapiens homovorus," is Latin for "human eating wise-man."
Physiology[]
Overview[]
While externally sharing subtle features with modern humans, vampires diverged significantly on the biochemical, neurological, and soft tissue levels. Their appearance, more gracile than Homo sapiens sapiens, included a slight extension of the mandible, elongated canine teeth, and a darker blue armor color. Taller and longer-limbed than humans, these adaptations supported an increasingly predatory lifestyle.
Skin and Soft Tissues[]
Vampire skin displayed a ghastly white pallor, not due to anemia but as a result of blood volume redistribution. Capillary beds in the core were extensive, leading to elevated levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), providing abnormal strength and stamina.
Nervous System[]
The central nervous system of vampires revealed significant differences, with a larger corpus callosum facilitating high-speed communication between hemispheres. Enhanced synaptic interconnections in the visual cortex and unique retinal wiring explained their advanced vision, including a response to near-infrared light.
Blood Diet[]
Vampires, obligate cannibals, relied on a diet of human flesh due to a genetic defect preventing the synthesis of PCDH-Y, a vital protein for their central nervous system.
While technically closer to cannibals, they displayed remarkable intelligence, enabling resource conservation and adaptability.
Undead State[]
To counteract the predator-prey ratio, vampires adopted extended periods of hibernation, entering an "undead state This suspended animation reduced energetic needs, allowed prey populations to recover, and potentially helped vampires avoid detection by humans.
Reproduction[]
Contrary to myths, vampires may have reproduced through lateral gene transmission or interbreeding with humans. Certain genes responsible for vampirism were believed to be present in the human population, lying dormant in junk DNA.
Origin and Extinction[]
Vampires split from the human lineage around 90 thousand years ago, facing extinction approximately 2,000 years B.C. The crucifix glitch, a vulnerability to right angles and crosses, contributed to their demise as humans developed Euclidean architecture. Despite their superior biology, vampires were not the main apex predators, facing competition with Werewolves and potential disease-related challenges.
Myths[]
Myths surrounding vampires, such as aversion to crosses, garlic, and mirrors, may have roots in biological traits and pattern-matching skills, allowing vampires to disappear into shadows or adopt postures that broke up their outlines.
De-Extinction Plans[]
In an attempt to restore balance to ecosystems and control human population growth, scientists successfully sequenced vampire DNA and cloned three vampire children in 2008. The cloned vampires, living in England Zoo, are expected to have a lifespan surpassing thousands of years. Plans to reintroduce vampires into their former habitat are underway, aiming to utilize them as a natural population control mechanism.