Smolderbeetles are palm-sized insects with black shells and glowing undersides, found in mineral-rich caverns.
Description
They cluster in swarms, glowing faintly as they consume slag and mineral dust. Their waste fertilizes fungi farms, and their glow serves as natural light in Nidavellir’s tunnels.
Role in the Isles
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Fertilize subterranean fungus beds, sustaining Duergar agriculture.
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Serve as natural diviners of ore, clustering near rich veins.
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Provide light in otherwise pitch-black tunnels.
Ties to Other Creatures
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Follow Stoneborers to harvest mineral debris.
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Swarms attract cave predators, creating food chains underground.
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Harvested by Duergar as food for domesticated fungus.