Subspecies

A "subspecies" is a color swap for a monster. These monster are usually named for their new color, for example, Blue Yian Kut-Ku. The only exceptions to this are Giaprey and Giadrome. Subspecies are usually nearly identical to the original monster, but possess increased stamina, have altered weaknesses, yield different carves and will occasionally have a new attack, such as the Red Khezu's "neck swing", or the lightning attacks of the White Fatalis.

Although most alternately colored monsters are simply subspecies of the original, several have different in-game explanations. The Bright Hypnock is simply a Hypnock with the special feathers of the creature's mating season and Azure Lao-Shan Lung is an aged Lao-Shan Lung who's scales have been discolored due to exposure to volcanic ash.