Laskureina

Laskureina is a fictional genus of bioluminescent, moss-like photosynthetic organisms created for speculative biology and science fiction. The term is a coined word, with various authors offering different etymologies—often treating lasku as light and reina as queen—though there is no formal, universal definition.

It forms translucent mats on forest floors and on decaying wood; the thallus is flexible, branching, with luminescent cells that glow faintly at night. It reproduces by spores produced in slender sporocarps at the tips.

It occupies cool temperate forests in fictional worlds, thriving in damp, shaded microhabitats; it forms mutualisms with fungi and bacteria, aiding nutrient cycling and soil stabilization. Its distribution varies by author but is typically widespread in temperate zones of the fictional realm.

The life cycle is described as an alternation of generations, with a dominant photosynthetic gametophyte stage and an ephemeral sporophyte stage that bears spores; spore dispersal is wind-driven, enabling colonization of new substrates.

In literature, laskureina is often used as a symbol of ancient forests, and its bioluminescence as a potential energy source or signaling mechanism. Scientists in fictional studies explore its ecological roles and biotechnological applications.

Taxonomic placement: As a fictional taxon, authors place laskureina within a dedicated family (Laskureinaceae) in the hypothetical order Mycotales or its equivalent; classifications vary across sources.