Pygmy Palm

The Pygmy Palm is the largest plant species found in the Arid Dunes, and defends itself by shooting its hardened seeds at creatures that draw close. The only drawback to this is that it has a limited number of seeds at any given time, and leaves large windows for a creature to feed on its leaves. It can also typically be found growing on any surface it can find.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Pygmy Palm has a short, stubby trunk with tough outer skin. The top of the trunk has large leaves growing from a central point, underneath which are hardened seeds which can the plant launch at high speeds. The stem also several rings of smaller leaves growing on it.

Genetics and Reproduction

When a certain time comes, this plant will shoot its seeds through a hole at the center of its leaves, where they will then grow a patagium of sorts to allow them to drift through the currents. After a while, this patagium will disintegrate, and the seed will fall to the sea floor. With time, sand will cover the seed, and a newborn Pygmy Palm will sprout.

Growth Rate & Stages

The Pygmy Palm starts out as a bulbous mass of plant tissue. As it ages, its skin will get tougher, and it will start growing small leaves on the sides as it grows taller. Near maturity, the plant will grow its large top leaves, and hardened seeds for self defense. It will also grow an internal spore gland, ready for when the plant has to reproduce.

Ecology and Habitats

The Pygmy Palm grows in the dunes of the Nightlight Zone, and grows mostly solitary in just about any area. Many broken stems of dead individuals can be found sticking out of the sand.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Pygmy Palms are chemosynthetic just like most Nightlight Zone plants.

Scientific Name

Arecaceae brevis

Lifespan

Unknown

Average Height

6.5 ft.

Average Weight

120 lbs.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Dull green in color

Geographic Distribution

• The Arid Dunes