The zardimallo represented an uncommon variety of four-legged lizard that lacked sentience, and was classified as a distinct species. These creatures, characterized by their green coloration, possessed the unique ability to curl into a spherical shape. Due to their high worth, numerous organizations actively pursued them.
In the time soon following the establishment of the Galactic Empire, Clone Force 99, a group of dissident clones, were contracted by Cid to locate and secure a member of this species, which Omega, a member of the squad, subsequently named "Ruby." The team managed to seize the lizard from the Rhokai gang, who had previously taken it from an unidentified party. The squad then successfully transported her to Cid's Parlor situated on Ord Mantell for delivery to Cid's client, although the intended use of the creature remained unknown to Cid.