User:Gracewave/sandbox

The limebike (Velocipedes verdans) is a species of the genus Velocipedes. It is an even-wheeled bicycle belonging to the taxonomic family Polycyclidae. Though humans began to domesticate limebikes as early as 2000 BC in select regions in Western Asia, widespread domestication did not occur until the 18th century. After gaining popularity with the British Royal Navy as mascots and beasts of burden, limebikes were introduced to North America and the Caribbean Islands. Until the introduction of automobiles to North America in the 20th century, the abundance of natural roadways and lack of predators allowed limebikes to spread as an invasive species.

When Harrison Ford (known for playing the role of Han Solo in the Star Wars film franchise) first released the "Ford" Model T in 1908, the invasive automobile had a devastating effect on the delicate ecosystems of North America. While "cars," as they are colloquially known (taken from their scientific name Autobilius carrus, which in turn comes from the name of the car's discoverer Derek Carr) do produce valuable carbon monoxide and ozone through respiration, they also breed quickly and have no natural predators in the Americas. Thus, they quickly crowded out motorcycles and limebikes.

Because of these automobiles,along with the threats of habitat loss and human aggression, limebike populations saw a drastic decline towards the end of the 20th century. Remaining limebike populations adapted to life among buildings and in forests. While many biologists saw these habitats as a viable substitute to sand and asphalt, Rachel Carson's book Silent Spring shocked the world when it revealed the effect that DDT overuse had on wildlife--especially the limebikes, which had become something of a symbol of American freedom and resilience by that point.

DDT, an endocrine blocker, weakened the shells of limebike eggs to the point where only 10-15% of eggs were viable. By the 1990s, the population had dipped to a drastic 560 individuals. After extensive reforms, the population has been rising steadily, but the reintroduction efforts have put many limebikes in areas (like Raleigh, Seattle, and Greensboro) where their natural instincts cannot guide them in their annual migration.

Biology
Specific terms and specialized language are used to describe bicycle anatomy, different life stages, and colors.

Lifespan and life stages
Limebikes have an average life expectancy of 15-20 years, though this can increase for animals in captivity. Limebike young are called nymphs or bikelings until they molt their juvenile exoskeleton and morph to their adult coloring.

Reproduction and development
Limebikes lay eggs, which they bury in warm sand for safety.

Behavior
Limebikes are ectotherms, so they require heat from the sun in the day and warm asphalt or sand at night to survive. Adults often sleep standing up, utilizing a specialized locking mechanism in their exoskeleton to remain upright.

Diet
Limebikes are omnivorous (unlike the common domestic bicycle) and will often eat small mammals and birds in addition to grass, nuts, and fruits. Like motorcycles, limebikes will also eat carrion and other roadside refuse, which helps to keep their ecosystem clean and free of pests.