Exotic Beast Record

The QiuYu, also known as Qiuwu, is a legendary creature described in the ancient Chinese literature, Shan Hai Jing (Classic of Mountains and Seas). The QiuYu is a type of mammal with a panda-like appearance on its body, but with tough scales covering its back. It is also said to contain a kind of medicinal herb called “failure meat” in its belly. The QiuYu has an important place in traditional Chinese culture, as its scales were considered to be a valuable commodity used for making precious instruments, weapons, and talismans for the purpose of guarding against malevolent spirits and supernatural beings. The meat of the QiuYu was also believed to be a valuable medicine used for treating various diseases.

Appearance

The QiuYu’s body is roughly the size of a small bear, with a relatively short and stocky body shape. Its head is round and has a short snout with a pair of small ears on the top. Its body is covered with spherical protective scales with protruding tips that look like armor plating. The scales are believed to be made of keratin and help to protect the QiuYu from predators. The scales on the QiuYu’s back are particularly thick and hard, forming a layered structure that serves as a natural defense mechanism. At the same time, the scales emit a glowing light from the pearl-shaped structures, adding an extra element of protection. Its belly, in contrast, is smooth and without scales, and is said to contain the medicinal herb known as “failure meat.” The QiuYu’s four limbs are short and thick, with long and pointed claws on the toes, which give them excellent climbing and digging capabilities.

Habitat

The QiuYu is believed to reside in the regions relatively close to the South China Sea and the East China Sea, such as Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Taiwan. The habitat of the QiuYu is said to be in dense forests and mountainous regions, which provides ample cover and access to food sources.

Role in Chinese Culture

The QiuYu has a significant role in Chinese culture, as its scales were considered a valuable commodity. The Chinese have a long tradition of using animal products, such as the scales of the QiuYu, for medicinal and cultural purposes. The scales were processed and made into precious instruments, weapons, and talismans, which were believed to be effective in protecting people against malevolent spirits and supernatural beings. The meat of the QiuYu was also believed to have medicinal properties, and was used as a health supplement for various ailments.

In Chinese traditional medicine, the meat of the QiuYu was believed to be a precious tonic. The fat and kidney of the animal were thought to supplement the kidney and moisturize the lungs, and were effective for treating post-disease body weakness and beauty care. The bile of the QiuYu was known to be an effective detoxifier and heat-clearing agent, and could be used to treat infectious diseases and skin diseases.

Conservation

Today, pangolins, which are believed to be the inspiration behind the QiuYu, are under threat due to illegal poaching and habitat destruction. Scientists estimate that between 2017 and 2019 alone, more than 1 million pangolins were illegally harvested. As such, efforts are being made to protect them through laws banning their sale and consumption, as well as programs to promote conservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the QiuYu is an important mythical creature in Chinese culture that carries cultural and historical significance. The unique qualities of the animal and its impact on cultural beliefs, medicine, and traditional practices highlights the importance of balancing conservation with cultural respect. Despite the fact that the QiuYu is a mythical creature, its animal counterpart, the pangolin, is under threat in reality and requires protection and conservation measures to ensure its survival. By preserving and appreciating such cultural and historical heritages, we can also contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and protect the environment.