Senda · speculative descendant

Rhiolitic Russian Thistle

Kali lithophilus

Generation 6 · descended from Kali tragus (Russian thistle)

As rocky outcrops became more prevalent, Kali tragus gave rise to a lithophilous descendant. This new species, Kali lithophilus, developed sharp, siliceous spines to deter herbivores and rhizomatous growth to colonize rocky crevices. Its increased size allows it to outcompete other vegetation on rocky outcrops.

Traits

Size

40 cm height

Diet

none (autotrophic)

Habitat

rocky outcrops

Locomotion

none (sessile)

Defense

sharp, siliceous spines

Notable features

• rhizomatous growth
• siliceous spines

Generated by Happy Naturalist AI from a real walk. Speculative biology — not a real species.