dfcaverns/df_lorebooks/ecology_flora.lua

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local S = minetest.get_translator(minetest.get_current_modname())
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:cave_wheat",
desc = S("Cave Wheat: The Other White Grain"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[In a world dominated by many varied fungal forms, cave wheat is an oddity - it is in fact not a fungus at all. It is literally a breed of grass that has lost its ability to photosynthesize and adapted to a subterranean style of life. Its roots draw sustenance from the same sources of nutrition that more conventional fungi do, with the blades of its leaves having atrophied into mere structural supports to elevate its seeds above the mire below and allow them to dry before dispersing. Cave wheat has a pale blue-tinted hue while it is growing, fading to white once its stalks mature and dry into wispy straw.
The grains of cave wheat are as nutritional as those of its surface cousins, and can be ground into a flour-like powder that keeps well in the cool damp conditions prevalent underground. Bread baked from cave wheat flour is dense and tough, but can serve as a staple food to sustain a traveler provided they don't mind a little monotony.
Make that a lot of monotony. It is advised to combine cave wheat flour with other ingredients whenever possible, it extends the nutritional value without adding or detracting much from other flavours.
Cave wheat can be cultivated by planting its seeds in suitable loamy soil. As with most underground flora, it has little resistance to the damaging effects of light and will wither if exposed to much of it.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:dimple_cup",
desc = S("Dimple Cup"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today, I discovered a new species of mushroom deep in the caverns - the Dimple Cup. These small mushrooms have caps that are a deep, midnight-blue color, with inverted gills and dimpled edges that give them their name. I was able to dry, grind, and process these mushrooms to extract a dye of the same beautiful color. The resulting dye is a rich and vibrant blue that I can't wait to experiment with in my artistic endeavors.
As I held the mushroom in my hand, I couldn't help but think of the depths of the ocean and the mysteries that lie within. I wrote a short poem to capture the feeling:
Deep in the caverns, a mushroom so rare
A blue so deep, like the ocean's despair
With dimpled edges, and inverted gills
A mystery of nature, that still fills
My heart with wonder, my mind with awe
The Dimple Cup, forever more.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:pig_tail",
desc = S("Pig Tail"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I discovered a fascinating new species of underground fungus - Pig Tails. These growths have twisting stalks that wind around each other in a dense mesh, creating a beautiful spiral pattern. Upon closer inspection, I found that the stalks of the Pig Tails can be processed to extract fibers that are strong and pliable, making them ideal for use as thread.
As I examined these Pig Tails, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the unexpected possibilities that exist deep beneath the ground. To think that textiles could be made in these remote caverns is truly remarkable. The fibers extracted from the Pig Tails are of a high quality, and I can't wait to see what kind of fabrics and clothing can be crafted from them.
I must remind myself to be cautious when harvesting these Pig Tails, as they grow in dense clusters and are easily disturbed. I am excited to continue my research on these Pig Tails and the other unique underground fungi that I have yet to discover.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:plump_helmet",
desc = S("Plump Helmet"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I stumbled upon a bountiful patch of plump helmets. These thick, fleshy mushrooms are a common sight in the caverns and serve as a staple food source for both lost cave explorers and the fauna that preys on them. Though they can be eaten fresh, I found that they can be quite monotonous on their own. However, when prepared in a more complex dish, they add a nice meaty texture and earthy flavor. It's always a relief to come across a reliable source of sustenance in these underground depths. I will be sure to gather as many as I can to bring back to camp for tonight's meal.
]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:quarry_bush",
desc = S("Quarry Bush"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I stumbled upon a fascinating find deep in the caverns - Quarry Bushes. These unique fungi produce a cluster of grey, rumpled 'blades' that seem to serve no obvious purpose. Upon closer examination, I discovered that the bushes reproduce via hard-shelled nodules, called 'rock nuts', that grow at the base of the blades.
To my delight, I found that both the leaves and the rock nuts are edible, though they do require some processing. The dried blades of a quarry bush add a welcome zing to recipes containing otherwise-bland subterranean foodstuffs, but they're too spicy to be eaten on their own.
This discovery opens the possibility of genuinely gourmet cooking and not just subsistence foods in these subterranean regions. The wide variety of edible fungi and plants that can be found here truly astounds me. The Quarry Bushes are a rare find, but they add a new dimension to the underground culinary scene. I can't wait to experiment with them in the lab and see what other culinary delights can be created.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
local ss_text = ""
if minetest.get_modpath("cottages") then
ss_text = S("When milled, sweet pods produce a granular pink-tinted sugary substance.")
else
ss_text = S("When dried in an oven, sweet pods produce a granular pink-tinted sugary substance.")
end
ss_text = ss_text .. " " .. S("Crushing them in a bucket squeezes out a flavorful syrup.")
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:sweet_pod",
desc = S("Sweet Pod"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today, I had the pleasure of discovering a new species of subterranean fungi - the sweet pods. These mushrooms grow in rich soil, and once they reach maturity, they draw the nutrients from the soil up their pale stalks to concentrate it in their round fruiting bodies. The fruiting bodies turn bright red when ripe and can be processed in a variety of ways to extract the sugars they contain.
When dried and milled, the sweet pods produce a granular pink-tinted sugary substance that can be used as a sweetener in a variety of dishes. Additionally, when crushed in a bucket, a flavorful syrup can be squeezed out that can be used as a topping or an ingredient in cooking.
The sweet pods are a delightful discovery and open up new possibilities for gourmet cooking in the subterranean regions. I can't wait to experiment with different recipes and see what other culinary delights can be created using these delicious mushrooms.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:cave_moss",
desc = S("Cave Moss"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[I am constantly in awe of the strange and beautiful life that exists in these caverns. Today I came across Cave Moss, a type of mold that covers the floors of the subterranean world. Although it is not a spectacular sight, its presence is still quite remarkable.
This moss forms a dense mat of fibrous strands that seem to be both tough and springy. It thrives in rich organic soil, which is so plentiful in these caverns, making it one of the most widespread forms of life here.
But what truly sets Cave Moss apart is its ability to emit a gentle glow. This makes it an important source of light in the otherwise dark caverns, allowing travelers like myself to navigate through these underground realms with ease. It is a small but crucial detail that highlights the unique and amazing adaptations that the life down here has evolved.
However, it is a delicate creature that cannot withstand bright light and will die when exposed to the sun. It is a reminder of the fragility of life, even in these seemingly harsh and inhospitable environments.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:floor_fungus",
desc = S("Ecology of Floor Fungus"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I had the opportunity to observe and study a most peculiar fungus, known as Floor Fungus. This thin and slick growth can be found in the cracks of broken rocks, subsisting on the smallest of nutrients in harsh underground environments. It's a remarkable example of the resilience of life, adapting to the challenging conditions in these caverns.
However, despite its prevalence, Floor Fungus does not seem to have any known uses. I learned that it can penetrate deeply into cobblestone constructions if allowed to infest, but its spread has been limited by its sensitivity to light. It is fascinating to think about the unique adaptations that organisms like Floor Fungus have developed in order to survive in these dark and harsh conditions.
This discovery only deepens my appreciation for the rich and diverse life that exists within these caverns, and I look forward to uncovering more secrets in my continued explorations.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:floor_fungus_2",
desc = S("The Scourge of Floor Fungus"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I encountered the floor fungus, a peculiar form of subterranean mold that spreads through the cracks of broken rock. Despite its ubiquity in harsh underground environments, I cannot help but feel horrified by its resilience. This insidious growth has the potential to cause immense harm if it were to contaminate the foundations of surface structures and constructions.
During my experiments in the caverns, I observed the ease with which floor fungus can penetrate deeply into cobblestone constructions, and its ability to subsist on the tiniest traces of nutrients. It is therefore imperative that exploration of caverns with floor fungus in it be treated with care.
In light of this discovery, I strongly advise caution and recommend further research into the properties of this fungus. Its ability to thrive in seemingly inhospitable environments is a cause for concern, and I worry about what might happen if it were to spread beyond the deep caverns.]]),
author = S("Dr. Theodore Banks"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:stillworm",
desc = S("Stillworm"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today, I encountered a new species of fungus, known as Stillworm, while exploring the caverns. At first glance, its appearance is that of pale, motionless earthworms intertwined with the soil. Despite being aware that it is a form of fungus, I can't help but feel disturbed by its uncanny resemblance to actual worms. Walking on soil where Stillworm grows is an eerie experience, and I find myself tiptoeing cautiously to avoid stepping on them. Its survival in harsh underground environments is remarkable, but its eerie appearance leaves a lasting impression.
]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:sandscum",
desc = S("Sand scum"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today, I encountered something new down here in the caverns, something I never expected to find: Sand Scum. It's a crust of algae that grows on wet sand and, apparently, it's able to survive by utilizing the light from other organisms.
To be honest, I have to admit that I'm at a loss for words when it comes to Sand Scum. I have tried my best to find something interesting to say about it, but unfortunately, I have failed. It's just not that exciting of a discovery. I suppose it's a good indicator of the diversity of life that can be found in even the harshest environments, but that's about the extent of my thoughts on the matter.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:pebble_fungus",
desc = S("Pebble Fungus"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I discovered another fascinating underground species: pebble fungus. This mushroom covers the soil in small, spheroidal fruiting bodies that look like they could be gravel composed of erosion-smoothed pebbles. However, upon closer inspection, I found that the surface of these "pebbles" is actually soft and springy to the touch.
I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised to find that walking on this pebble fungus is actually quite comfortable. The dense, spongy surface of the fruiting bodies provides a gentle cushion, and it feels as though I am walking on a bed of soft, warm stones.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:rock_rot",
desc = S("The Ecology of Rock Rot and Spongestone"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I encountered a truly remarkable and somewhat terrifying organism- Rock Rot. This aggressive form of lichen seems to have an insatiable appetite for solid rock, eating away at its surface and leaving it rough and spongy. Over time, the rock becomes so riddled with pores and cavities that it is no longer recognizable as such, and is instead referred to as "Spongestone".
While the sight of rock being consumed and transformed by Rock Rot is unnerving, the end result is fascinating. The Spongestone that is produced is rich in minerals and organic material, which allows plants to grow on it as if it were soil. This opens up new opportunities for subterranean agriculture and other forms of life to thrive in areas where they would otherwise not be able to.
Despite my admiration for Rock Rot and its role in the creation of Spongestone, I cannot help but worry about what would happen if it were to spread beyond the caverns and infect the surface world. The thought of this tenacious and voracious organism eating away at the very foundations of civilization is a frightening one. I will continue to study it, but I also recommend caution to any future explorers of caverns containing Rock Rot.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:rock_rot_2",
desc = S("Mineral Extraction by Rock Rot"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I was examining the spongestone formation created by rock rot and I must admit, I was impressed by its potential. It is a well-known fact that rock rot is a highly aggressive form of lichen that eats into solid rock and transforms it into something that can barely be called "rock" anymore. The end result, spongestone, is a porous and spongy material that can provide a rich source of minerals.
I believe that rock rot could be harnessed as a tool for extracting minerals from ore bodies that are otherwise difficult to mine. The porosity of spongestone allows for easier access to the minerals contained within, making it a much more cost-effective and efficient method of mining. It would also have the added benefit of reducing the environmental impact of traditional mining methods, as it would require fewer excavation and drilling techniques.
Of course, caution must be exercised when utilizing rock rot for mining purposes. The aggressive nature of the lichen must be monitored closely to prevent it from spreading and potentially causing damage to surrounding structures. However, with proper safety measures in place, I believe that rock rot has the potential to revolutionize the mining industry.
I will continue my research on the subject and report back any further findings.]]),
author = S("Dr. Theodore Banks"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:hoar_moss",
desc = S("Hoar Moss"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Today I was able to examine a specimen of hoar moss, a mysterious and highly unusual organism that only occurs in the coldest environments underground. It is a type of greenish-blue crust that forms on the surface of ice-cold water and emits a ghostly light. I had initially assumed it was some form of mineral salt catalyzing an unusual growth of ice crystals but I was quite surprised to discover complex organic structure within it.
Hoar moss is highly resilient and can thrive in extreme conditions where other life forms cannot. Despite its potential scientific value, hoar moss is not well understood and its sensitivity to warmth makes it very difficult to study. Further research is required to understand the significance of this remarkable organism.]]),
author = S("Dr. Theodore Banks"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:glow_worms",
desc = S("Glow Worms: A False Night in the Depths"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Wherever there is a substantial amount of moisture, life, and airspace in the deep places of the world, there will be an ecology of flying insect and flying insectivores. And above it all will be the deceptively beautiful star-like galleries of the glow worms, preying on all of those. Glow worms are small carnivorous creatures that form colonies of millions on high cavern ceilings, hanging in chains along nigh-invisible silken threads. They produce a twinkling blue-white glow within their bodies, creating an effect not unlike a starry sky.
That seemingly inviting sky is a trap, however. Creatures that fly into it - whether lured by the lights or simply confused by them - become tangled in the sticky strands and are quickly devoured.
Glow worms are individually quite small and helpless when not suspended among their countless fellows, and don't thrive in caverns that are too dry - they require water for breeding and their silk becomes brittle without some amount of humidity. However, a careful caver can gather a quantity of worms and transplant them to other hospitable locations if they find the light (and pest control) they provide to be appealing. Glow worms are one of the most ubiquitous forms of life down here, found at all depths.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})
df_lorebooks.register_lorebook({
title = "lorebooks:poem1",
desc = S("Life Beneath the Surface"),
inv_img = "lorebooks_science.png",
text = S([[Amid the darkness deep and true,
Where most would fear to venture, too,
A world of wonders I did find,
A place to let my heart unwind.
The caves and tunnels underground,
A world so different, yet profound,
A place where life still finds a way,
And flourishes, night and day.
The spindlestems, they glow so bright,
A sight that takes my breath away,
And in their caps, the secrets kept,
Of minerals and secrets kept.
The dimple cups, with midnight hue,
A dye so rich, it's hard to view,
A treasure trove of beauty rare,
A gift from depths beyond compare.
Pig tails twist and twine with grace,
A fibrous mass of form and space,
The thread they give, a wondrous sight,
A cloth of strength, both day and night.
The plump helmets, thick and round,
A staple food, both there and found,
A sustenance, a common treat,
A delight, both crisp and sweet.
The quarry bushes, zingy blades,
A spicy flavor, well-made,
The nodules, the rock nuts sweet,
A taste that can't be beat.
The sweet pods, with their sugary treat,
A delight for both man and beast,
A gift from life, so rich and true,
A treasure trove, so rare and few.
This world, so hidden, far below,
A world of life, in ebb and flow,
A world I've found, a world so dear,
A place I hold so very near.]]),
author = S("Professor Amelia Rose"),
date = "",
})