User:Zundy/Sandbox

Reproduction
Dionae follow an asexual reproduction cycle, similarly observed in plants. Gestalts will release a plume of seeds approximately once every ten years, typically after having travelled to their place of origin (similarly to Salmon). The reasoning for such is to best ensure that experiences occur, as many cite their best experiences come from their origin point, however, If it is either impossible to return to such a point, or it is simply wished to spread their seeds elsewhere, many Dionae will attempt to find environments that are optimal for pod growth.

Xenobotanists have noted that the spores released from Dionae are configured to be capable of spreading via solar winds - and many study the journey of it, allowing for solar wind trails to be noted and investigated. This has also led to various clusters to form far from civilised corners of the known universe. It is also believed that the spores are capable of surviving atmospheric entry thanks to a hardened form of ambergris covering the seed, which becomes fertilizer within the soil after germination occurs.

When the seeds reach a location (preferably optimal) they sink themselves within the ground, many have noted once they have rooted themselves it becomes increasingly more hard to remove them. The Dionae seed then begins to germinate and develops into a Diona Replicant Pod - which is, in essence, a Diona egg. The pod then absorbs much of the nutrients surrounding itself, but also feeds on the ambergris coating that had once upon a time protected it.

In optimal condition, a pod can grow relatively quickly - however, should required nutrients not be available the pod enters a state of hibernation until such nutrients are provided. It can sometimes take centuries for a pod to fully develop. Pods grown without Ambergris tend to find the nymphs produced to wither soon after being disgorged.