Frostcap
A pale blue-white fungi that grows exclusively in cold biomes, typically in dark environs like caves. Easily identifiable by its frost-crystal-coated top, and the dull light it omits in the darkness.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Typically a few centimeters in diameter, pale bluish-white in color with a faintly ruffled perimeter. Surface often crusted with natural frost due to moisture sublimation and the cap's slow respiration.
Genetics and Reproduction
Reproduction occurs via spores dispersed through cold air currents or through melting icicles. Spores can remain viable for up to 10 years in frozen conditions, and will germinate when they detect a thaw/refreeze cycle that offers meltwater and nutrients.
The dull glow emitted by a frostcap in a dark cave is immediately evident.
Ecology and Habitats
Naturally found in subterranean cold zones - ice caves, glacier-fed caverns, and high altitude fissures where temperatures remain consistently at or well below freezing. Extremely sensitive to warming; absent in lower elevations.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Feeds primarily on leaf particles blowing into caves, dead insects, frozen animal remains, etc. Requires stable humidity and a thin water film to break down organic substances.
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