Name: Viridipars genus (galactic common scientific name) — Aifost category (Serez-ex common scientific name) — “Serez-ex iceworms” or “Aifost worms” Description: Aifost worms are a genus of segmented, tube-shaped coelomates with pronounced jaws, thick skin, and long, wispy, setae-like hairs. Two well-known species commonly used in vermicomposting are tala worms (Viridipars communa / Aifost-tala) and yellow icewrigglers (Viridipars alba / Aifost-ixcit), pictured below. Behavior: The majority of aifost worms remain near the surface of the clot soil in warmer temperatures (-30 to 10 degrees celsius) and retreat in colder weather (-40 or below). When touched or poked, they writhe involuntarily. Tamability: Around as domesticated as any simple, worm-sized creature can be. Used by shifter farmers to make compost in subzero temperatures. Many genetically modified disease-resistant varieties exist. Where is it found?: Native to the clot-soil of Sereven’a, the shifter homeworld, and near-exclusive to Ascended Superhive space. Rarity: In shifter colonies, common. Outside of them, very rare and difficult to acquire– most shifter colonies are reluctant to trade with outsiders. Diet/Method of gaining nutrients and energy: Most Aifost worms (such as Tala worms) are detrivores, consuming dead cells and organic tissues. Products?: Their poop! Like earthworms, Aifost worms are valuable in vermicomposting. They’re often used to produce compost for gardens and organic crops. Also makes a delicious snack. Reproduction: All Aifost worms are monoecious (hermaphroditic) and can either self-fertilize or mate with another— mating is preferred. Eggs are lain by the hundreds in small, sticky clusters. Nymphs are born with dozens of soft legs that drop off in adulthood. Size: Members of this genus can range from 2 mm to several feet long. Tala worms are typically 3-5 cm long, yellow icewrigglers are 7-12 cm. Weight: What you’d expect from worms. Lifespan: 5-9 years in the wild. Upwards of ten years in captivity. Abilities: Very cold resistant due to thick skin and antifreeze in blood (tolerates a temperature range of -40 to 10 degrees celsius) Eggs are easy to freeze-dry and transport, nymphs and adults are easy to transport live. Generally low-maintenance Disease-resistant Makes funny worm poop for your funny ice garden Tasty snack Flaws: Restricted to cold biomes Heavily prefers clot-soil over normal dirt Dies in especially high temperatures (30℃ or above) It’s worm Other: n/a
