Droplet Dears

Tiny humanoid sprites that only live in water. They somewhat resemble mermaids but are about the size of a domesticated cat. The specifics of their scales and tail-fins are based on the largest fish found within their chosen homes. Droplet dears are also very protective of the creatures and water of the area they inhabit, and seem to play a key part in keeping the environment healthy.

Habitat
Freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds are the most likely place to find a droplet dear. The purer the water, the better your chances will be.

Biology
They are incapable of surviving out of water for more than two minutes and are just as sensitive to drying up as normal fish are. Their overall health and intelligence depends on the status of the water they live in. Polluted water can make them irrational and violent. In extreme cases, they will launch themselves out of the water to get away from its tainted state.

Sociability
Often found in groups of at least four or five, though larger collections have been seen depending on their habitat. Their behavior towards humans changes based on the condition of the water. In the best conditions they only cause trouble for fishermen - stealing or breaking their supplies in order to keep the fish populations thriving. They'll also help a drowning human or creature without needing to be bribed or persuaded. Meanwhile in the worst cases they will make tridents to attack any who dare too close to their territory as humans are often to blame for the declined health of their home.

Trivia
Some older families of these sprites were able learn the language of native humans that reside around their homes and can understand them quite well despite their inability to respond.