Crypt Bells

Basic Information

Anatomy

The crypt bell is a species of fungus cultivated in Harpy burial sites, most commonly growing on burial pots, crypts, and urns. The fruiting body of the fungus is bell shaped due to how it grows- stalks grow upwards and extend a wide cap, that fills with moisture and becomes heavy, drooping around the stalk as the mushroom ages. Wild crypt bells are quite small, but domestic varieties, those often planted by Harpies, can be significantly larger- the largest recorded cap growing to one foot in diameter.

Genetics and Reproduction

Like most fungi, crypt bells reproduce through spores produced by their mushroom fruiting bodies which are spread on the ground, air, and through moisture such as running water and rain. The fungus' spores will typically remain dormant until there is enough food for it to grow, preferring to grow on carrion and corpses. It can also be cultivated by harvesting mycelium from the main body and transplanting the fungus into a new food source.

Ecology and Habitats

Crypt bells are rare in the wild, mainly growing in damp but not wet environments off of the ground. Wild populations are often found at the boundaries of swamps and wetlands.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The crypt bell is most well known for its uses in harpy burial rites and cuisine. Harpies use the fungus to dispose of their dead, deliberately seeding urns, coffins, and other burial devices with the spores to speedily break down corpses for faster reuse in crypts and catacombs, and harvest the mushrooms as food. The mushrooms are cleaned, skinned, and cooked often by frying in oil with spices, peppers, and onions or garlic, used as a filler or sometimes as a meat substitute if cooked in fat or gravy.
Known for their meaty flavor profile, the fungus has become widespread across many regions, particularly those high in harpy population. It is often traded to Fairies in exchange for other mushroom varieties, and in the current day, has seen much deliberate breeding to produce different flavors, sizes, or textures. Widespread use of the mushroom in green burials has also become much more common.

Origin/Ancestry

natural

Conservation Status

Domestic / Least Concern