# [Merfolk Skirmisher](Mechanics\CLI\bestiary\elemental/merfolk-skirmisher-xmm.md)
*Source: Monster Manual (2024) p. 209. Available in the <span title='Systems Reference Document (5.2)'>SRD</span> and the Free Rules (2024)*
Merfolk skirmishers defend their homes from aquatic monsters and invaders from the surface.
## Merfolk
*Protectors and Explorers of the Seas*
- **Habitat.** Coastal, Underwater
- **Treasure.** Individual
Beneath the waves dwell merfolk, mysterious creatures that merge the features of humans and sea creatures. Some are curious about land dwellers, while others view them with suspicion.
```statblock
"name": "Merfolk Skirmisher (XMM)"
"size": "Medium"
"type": "elemental"
"alignment": "Neutral"
"ac": !!int "11"
"hp": !!int "11"
"hit_dice": "2d8 + 2"
"modifier": !!int "1"
"stats":
- !!int "10"
- !!int "13"
- !!int "12"
- !!int "11"
- !!int "14"
- !!int "12"
"speed": "10 ft., swim 40 ft."
"senses": "passive Perception 12"
"languages": "Common, Primordial (Aquan)"
"cr": "1/8"
"traits":
- "desc": "The merfolk can breathe air and water."
"name": "Amphibious"
"actions":
- "desc": "Melee or Ranged Attack Roll: +2, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft.\
\ Hit: 3 (d6) Piercing damage plus 2 (d4) Cold damage. If the target is\
\ a creature, its [Speed](Mechanics/CLI/rules/variant-rules/speed-xphb.md) decreases\
\ by 10 feet until the end of its next turn. Hit or Miss: The spear magically\
\ returns to the merfolk's hand immediately after a ranged attack."
"name": "Ocean Spear"
"source":
- "XMM"
"image": "Mechanics/CLI/bestiary/elemental/token/merfolk-skirmisher-xmm.webp"
```
^statblock
## Environment
coastal, underwater