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From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
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'''Shapers''' make up the leadership of the [[Kroot]], both as individual [[Kindreds]] fighting under the [[Tau Empire]] or as mercenary forces, and oversee the consumption, direction and distribution of genetic material among the most basic Kroot and between various different Kroot forces. The Shapers are referred to as the Shaper [[Caste]] in one source, indicating a cultural link between the [[Tau]] and Kroot.
The Shapers lead individual Kindreds into battle, directing them as a [[Imperial Guard Sergeant|Sergeant]] would. A large kindred is typically run by a [[Master Shaper]], while a group consisting of multiple kindreds may be headed by a [[Shaper Council]] of three to five kroot, who act as overseers to the other shapers, and ensure that shapers do not lead their warriors down a dangerous evolutionary path. Occasionally '''Shaper Chief''' may rise to power in times of emergency, such as [[Anghkor Prok]], and unite hundreds of kindreds as a single army.
The other job of a shaper is to direct the evolution of the Kroot in their Kindred by consuming certain enemies. For example, if a Shaper wanted his Kindred to become more muscular, he would have them pursue [[Ork]]s, likewise a Shaper who wanted more agile or swift Kroot, they would hunt [[Eldar]]. The Imperium has designated them Primary Intermediate Trophic.
