Dusthorn (Spina arida)

Alias: Coasthorn
Origin: Coastal Thazvaar (deserts, coastal dunes)

The Dusthorn, also known as Coasthorn, is a low-growing, gray shrub native to the coastal deserts and dunes of Thazvaar. Its dew-condensing thorns and bitter, edible pulp make it a critical survival resource in arid coastal regions. The plant condenses moisture from fog and retains it in its thorny structure, supporting small desert fauna and contributing to coastal ecosystem stability. Thazvaari tribes used its pulp for sustenance and its thorns for temporary fencing. Presence indicates stable, dew-rich microclimates useful for ecological surveys and expedition planning.

Lifespan

Lives 15–30 Geban years, with slow growth in the first 5 years and steady thorn production thereafter. Reaches maturity at ~7 Geban years and produces viable seeds during rare post-storm moisture spikes.

Uses

• Sustenance: Bitter, edible pulp provides nutrient-rich food for desert travelers.
• Fencing: Thorns harvested for temporary fencing to protect camps.
• Ecological indicator: Presence signals dew-rich, stable coastal microclimates for surveys.
• Cultural use: Thazvaari tribes use Dusthorn thorns in rituals symbolizing survival.
• Guidance: Extract dew after fog for hydration; avoid pulp during seismic events due to ash contamination risk.

Notes

The Dusthorn’s dew-condensing thorns made it a vital resource in Coastal Thazvaar’s arid dunes, particularly during the Era of Absolute Expansion (~3,000 YBM) when it supported coastal survival. Overharvesting during the Warlord Eras (~500–17 YBM) reduced populations in trafficked coastal zones. Expedition teams should monitor for seismic activity, as uprooted Dusthorns indicate unstable dunes. Its limited range outside coastal deserts restricts its utility in humid or inland biomes.