Deep Lichen

Deep Lichen is a type of bioluminescent lichen. It is native the below, and subsists on chemosynthesis and the moisture in the air. It has been farmed and domesticated by Deepslimes from centuries of cultivation. Though flameforged lanterns are a far longer lasting source of light, even richer Deepslimes still prefer to use Deep Lichen.

Basic Information

Anatomy

It comes in two separate varieties. One of these varieties is far brighter than the other. It is used as a light source, and will continue functioning as a light source until it dies and begins to decay. The other variety is used for consumption. Its glow is soft, but it grows far more densely. It is also thicker than the light variety, as well as being more nutritious. Humans tend to dislike the taste, texture, and everything about it as a food, however some miners do use the light variant instead of lanterns due to its longevity compared to candles.
Along with these domestic varieties, the wild variant still exists. The wild variant glows slightly brighter than the one used for consumption, but grows far less densely. Additionally, it is wetter than either of the domestic variants. This wild variant is also consumed by many native fauna of the Below, including even Pale Wyrms. Though it can spread enough to cover large areas, it is rare to see a section that is undisturbed.

Growth Rate & Stages

Both variants take roughly 5 months to go through an entire life cycle. However, being a lichen, it is far less noticeable than most surface crops. In large enough patches, it appears to never die.

Ecology and Habitats

Its wild variant can be found in the mid levels of the Below, particularly around lakes where there is greater humidity. The domestic variants are much better at living in the higher levels of the below and even damp areas aboveground.

Dietary Needs and Habits

It requires humidity and stone with the chemicals needed for it to grow.

Geographic Distribution

• The Below