Godherja Encyclopedia

Laodantine Forests (concept)

Biozone: Laodantine Forests

Though populations of colossal redwood trees are present in scattered pockets across Kalathipsomi, nowhere do they dominate the biosphere as much as in the northern half of the peninsula. The shade cast by their vast canopies means that few other tree species are able to establish a foothold underneath, but their treetops also serve as a distinct ecosystem in and of themselves, with an incredible variety of birds, small mammals and giant insects spending their entire lifetimes rarely (if ever) descending from their leafy abode.

The awe-inducing redwoods that dominate Laodantine Forests are certainly a sight to behold, growing to such staggering heights that even ancient oak trees look like measly weeds in comparison. If I crane my neck and look at the immense canopy hanging several hundred feet above us, I can just about make out all kinds of movement among the leaves, the creatures producing them ranging from colorful birds to giant beetles.

Luckily for us, the undergrowth — though present, mostly in the form of large ferns — is sparse and easily navigable, with only the occasional colossal root approaching anything resembling an obstacle. The trek here should be pleasant, though getting the canopy's more elusive residents to come down will definitely be tricky.