Chori Shrub
10 cm in height
Adaptations: The most significant adaptation to C. cauliramos is the structure. The polyph now grows in a branching structure, allowing for the growth of many more stems than previously. This is favorable as it allows for the growth of more leaves, increasing photosynthetic surface area, and the growth of more berries, allowing it to create more offspring. Some stems fork, typically those towards the top, to be more optimally spaced to receive more light, and important feature in Zone's undergrowth. Its leaves are also larger but thinner than that of its ancestor, optimized to collect light in the understory. They are also positioned higher up the stem. This was selected for as it prevents the stems and berries from casting light onto the leaves.
The branching structure developed when meristem tissue was regionalized at the ends of branches allowing for more than one fruit bearing stem to develop,
Feeding: C. cauliramos photosynthesizes with its relatively large, flat leaves, but is also capable of weak photosynthesis with its stems.
Reproduction: C. cauliramos produces yellow flowers that, once pollinated, develop into bright red berries. These berries are adapted to encourage consumption by predators, which spread the digestion resistant seeds once they are excreted. These berries grow at the ends of stems which are angled downwards in order to prevent the berries from shading the leaves.