Kelpflotensa erroda
Descended from K. submergus This species is extremely similar to K. submergus, however it has one crucial change to the seeds that helps it cement itself into the seabed more effectively. This is a strong acidic compound held within the seeds that is emitted as soon as the seed is released from the parent polyph. This new adaptation means that once the seed hits the seafloor, it will erode the rock down to 5-15cm (depending on rock density) before taking root. The roots of the polyph also contain a concentration of this acid to help the roots tunnel through the rock, further holding the whole polyph down. Lastly, this acid is also present in the tendrils, as it helps them not get clumped together in the initial hole created by the seed but instead causing them to branch out slightly by eroding a larger hole in the rock (allowing them to spread out more) The polyph’s acid is formed simply by lowering the pH of its internal water and mixing it with leftover sugary compounds to thicken it. The pH is lowered via enzymes produced by the polyph that break down basic compounds into their individual elements. There are also some other natural dissolving compounds added to strengthen the corrosion of this acid. This new liquid is stored and transported in a set of specialized xylem. The other, more basic water is transported up the plant and released towards the surface of the water where it disperses. The polyph is unaffected by the acid because the cell walls have acid-resistant proteins within. The parent polyph releases seeds whenever possible, however it takes 2 weeks for one seed to develop. The polyph has a maximum size of 1 meter, releasing seeds at 2 feet.