Otomoss

Otomoss is a fictional concept used in speculative fiction and contemporary media art to explore the intersection of biology and computation. It is not a real species or scientifically recognized term; rather, Otomoss appears as a moss-like organism or ecological system whose behavior is guided by digital inputs.

Origin and usage: The term originated in a 2010s science-fiction novella and has been featured in exhibitions and online projects that simulate bio-digital ecosystems. In these works, Otomoss is depicted as forming dense carpets on natural and constructed substrates, capable of assimilating environmental data streams and translating them into physiological responses or visual outputs.

Concept and characteristics: In the fictional portrayal, Otomoss tracks and stores data through a distributed network of microstructures akin to genomes; it responds to light, humidity, and electromagnetic signals by altering growth patterns, color, or texture. The "moss" acts as a sensor matrix and a processor, blurring boundaries between living matter and machine.

Cultural impact: Otomoss has been used to discuss topics such as environmental monitoring, autonomy, and the ethics of biotechnological design. Critics note its provocative fusion of biology and computation, while others view it as a metaphor rather than a literal prediction.

See also: bioart, speculative biology, moss, synthetic biology.