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
Bioluminescence: Glowands emit a steady greenish glow, most visible at night. The light arises from a luciferin–luciferase
Ecology and life cycle: Fruiting occurs mainly from late summer to autumn after wet periods. Spores disperse
Taxonomy and discovery: Glowands comprise the genus Glowands within the family Glowandaceae. First described in 1995
Uses and cultural significance: The natural luminescence has attracted interest for potential low-energy lighting research and