Glowands

Glowands are a genus of bioluminescent fungi native to temperate forests in the northern hemisphere of the fictional realm of Eldoria. They grow on decaying hardwood and leaf litter, functioning as saprotrophs that help recycle nutrients in forest ecosystems.

Description: Fruiting bodies are 1–4 cm tall, stalked, with a cap that bears several palm-like lobes. In dense clusters, these lobes give a hand-like silhouette. The surface is smooth and translucent, ranging in pale tan to gray.

Bioluminescence: Glowands emit a steady greenish glow, most visible at night. The light arises from a luciferin–luciferase reaction, peaking in the green spectrum around 520–540 nm. Light intensity increases with humidity and rainfall and wanes as fruiting bodies age or dry.

Ecology and life cycle: Fruiting occurs mainly from late summer to autumn after wet periods. Spores disperse by wind. They form expansive mycelial networks that connect with other saprotrophs, aiding decomposition. No known symbioses with plants are documented, though interactions with moss and invertebrates are observed in some stands.

Taxonomy and discovery: Glowands comprise the genus Glowands within the family Glowandaceae. First described in 1995 by mycologist A. Lume from specimens in Mistwood Reserve; subsequent field work has cataloged several described species and others awaiting formal description.

Uses and cultural significance: The natural luminescence has attracted interest for potential low-energy lighting research and for ecotourism. Folklore regards Glowands as omens guiding travelers at night.