Chukwa Clan

The Chukwa Clan is a mysterious tribe of human-merfolk hybrids, who live secluded on Gamera Island.

Appearance
Despite Chukwas having Merfolk blood, they more closely resemble humans, aside from their skin color that can vary from blue, to green or red. Most Chukwas dress in a rudimentary clothing, such as loincloths, leather and fur.

Beliefs
Because of their secluded, isolated past, most Chukwas are oblivious about the outside world, such as having no knowledge of Devil Fruits. They also usually don't like outsiders, who they consider as greedy trespassers that must be eliminated. The Chukwa Clan also greatly worships Princess Poseidon, and the ocean as a whole. The Chukwa chieftain, Bangda, acts as a priest by praying Poseidon. Their most precious relic, the Scale of Poseidon, is the centrepiece of the cult, and many consider it a gift of God.

Overall Strength
Due to their Merfolk heritage, the Chukwas have kept a deep connection with the ocean. They hence possess several abilities that were passed down from their ancestors.
 * Expert Swimming: Just like their ancestors, mermaids and mermen, the Chukwas are still able to swim very easily and fastly.
 * Surhuman Apnea: Even though they, unlike their Merfolk ancestors, don't have gills, most Chukwas are able to casually keep their breath underwater. Some individuals can even stay underwater for several hours.
 * Sealife Communication: The Chukwas also have the ability to talk with all kinds of fishes, a trait shared by mermaids and mermen. However, they cannot talk to mammals, such as whales, nor to Neptunians.

Chukwas

 * Tarali
 * Bangda
 * Nethili

Past
Legend has it that, 900 years ago, a mermaid named Tarali fell in love with a human. With a couple of friends and relatives, she resolved to leave Fishman Island and establish at the surface. However, knowing of the persecutions against Fishmen and Merfolk, they asked Princess Poseidon for a safe place where they could live happy and secluded. In response, Poseidon took off a scale from her tail, and with it summoned Chukwa, a Neptunian sea turtle. Giving her scale to Tarali, she made her vow not to ever use its power in ill-willed ways.

Over the centuries, the tribe gained the name of Chukwa Clan, and their land became known as the legendary Gamera Island.