DATALAND — BIOME LUMINA: BIOME LUMINA #821/1000

Phosphomyces Astralum, from Latin 'starry light fungus,' is a bioluminescent species in the Luminous Terra cluster. It grows 10-25 cm tall, weighs up to 15 g, and features a translucent, gelatinous cap with a smooth convex to slightly depressed surface emitting blue-green light (420-490 nm). The finely striated cap margin reveals thin, well-spaced lamellae. Its slender, semi-translucent stipe supports clustered specimens in tropical rainforest canopies. Bioluminescence results from a luciferin-luciferase reaction. Taxonomically, it belongs to Mycenaceae, genus Phosphomyces, order Agaricales. Saprotrophic, it decomposes organic matter in high-canopy substrates at 10-20°C. Spores disperse via basidiospores from gills by canopy air currents. Its mycelium breaks down lignocellulosic material, aiding nutrient cycling and forest ecosystem health.