Catbug's Tail

Catbug’s Tail split from its ancestor. As its name suggests, its inflorescence has been modified to have defensive spikes--somewhat resembling the tail of a catbug. This makes its inflorescence less appealing for herbivores to eat. These spikes are actually immature leaves: the growth of leaves has been altered so that they are stiff and sharp early on, and they lose their stiffness as they grow longer. The leaf-spikes on the fruiting part of the inflorescence never do this, however, instead retaining their stiffness. As young leaves serve as defense, more leaves will grow along the inflorescence than in its ancestor, though their growth is slower further up to retain their defensive property for as long as possible.

Similar to its ancestor, the Catbug’s Tail reproduces using spores. Microgametes are produced at the leaf tips, and these may be carried away by wind or sometimes fauna. These meet macrogametes at the end of the inflorescence, and once fertilized these develop into seeds consisting of a young individual wrapped in a thick water-soluble coating. The seeds will often be carried away by water, allowing parents and offspring to avoid competing with one another. The Catbug’s Tail breeds year-round, and as such retains its inflorescence in all seasons.