Coral Mycelium Anthozoa Hyphae
Fungi
Coral mycelium
Native to the beaches of Lylluna Reef, Coral Mycelium is a unique mycelial growth commonly found on large pieces of driftwood and dead or decaying trees. Its appearance mimics that of reef coral, with outgrowths ranging in a saturated gradient of yellows, pinks, and reds; though a tell-tale dark purple-ish tint at the center signifies its somewhat toxic nature.
Home Island: Lylluna Reef
Rarity: ✦✧✧✧✧
Growth Cycle: Coral Mycelium spreads rapidly once spores land on suitable driftwood, and thrives in moist, salty atmospheric conditions. It remains active year-round, efficiently breaking down and decomposing driftwood and other dead plant matter. Mature outgrowths can release spores to propagate further.
Unique Properties: This mycelial growth mimics the appearance of vibrant tube corals. It has a distinctive dark purple-ish tint at its center, indicating its somewhat toxic traits: its outgrowths are squishy, and can be squeezed to release spores as a defensive mechanism against predators. In fact, ingesting or inhaling its spores can lead to respiratory issues, akin to a common cold.
Ease of Cultivation: ✦✦✦✦✧
Practical Uses: This fungi serves as a natural decomposer of driftwood on the shores of Lylluna, breaking down large masses into fertile fertilizer for other plants on the shore. It can also be used to compost other dead plant matter for gardening.
Value: ✦✧✧✧✧
Lore and Cultural Significance: Though not widely documented, an old myth from Lylluna Reef tells of a time when the Coral Mycelium was nearly driven to extinction by competition for space with reef corals. A kind stranger, speculated to be a member of the Mage’s Academy, brought a propagule to shore. They whispered instructions and, perhaps, cast a spell, ensuring the fungi’s survival above the ground and away from the competitive reef.