Your tough, spiky exterior provides natural armor. When you aren't wearing armour, your AC is equal to 12 + your Dexterity modifier.

You do not need to eat, drink, or sleep. Instead, you can spend at least 4 hours in direct sunlight to gain the same benefits as a long rest.

You have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made in desert environments.

Vulnerable to fire damage

Your body has developed a natural arsenal of retractable spikes that can be used defensively and offensively. You gain the following benefits:

• You have a maximum of Level + 5 spikes available for use. You regain all expended spikes after completing a long rest.
• As a bonus action, you can pull out and throw a spike at a target within 20 feet. Make a ranged attack (action) with proficiency, dealing 1d6 piercing damage on a hit. The damage increases to 2d6 at 5th level, 3d6 at 11th level, and 4d6 at 17th level.
• As a bonus action, you can make a melee attack (action) with a spiked appendage against a creature within 5 feet. On a hit, you deal 1d6+1 piercing damage. The damage increases to 2d6+1 at 5th level, 3d6+2 at 11th level, and 4d6+3 at 17th level.
• If you are grappled while having your maximum amount of spikes, the creature grappling you takes piercing damage equal to your proficiency bonus at the start of its turn.

Your connection to sunlight is crucial, and extended periods of darkness weaken you. You gain the following benefits and drawbacks:

• Sunlit Vigor: When in direct sunlight, you have advantage on saving throws against being blinded and effects that would cause exhaustion.

• Darkened Debility: If you spend more than 24 hours without exposure to direct sunlight, you suffer from Darkened Debility. During this time, you have disadvantage on Strength and Dexterity ability checks and saving throws. This disadvantage persists until you spend at least 2 hour in direct sunlight.

• Photosynthetic Resilience: While in sunlight, you have resistance to necrotic damage.