Dermagarden

A form of extreme body-modification practiced primarily by Cathectic botanists where automorphs are coaxed into symbiosis with a living host. Automorphs regularly adhere to host-plants such as vines and tree trunks, but are less inclined to affix themselves to mammalian, avian, or other complex, fast-moving, and otherwise higher life-forms.

While the exact procedures for cultivating a dermagarden remain tightly-guarded secrets, it is understood that certain conditions are necessary for some automorphs to colonize a life-form. Such preconditions include that a host receives an excess and constant introduction of water, regular intervals of sunlight, and a highly specialized diet. To prevent smothering and suffocation by a clustering of automorphs to the airways and other essential passageways, dermagardens must be regularly and intricately maintained.

Naturally-occurring dermagardens are not unheard of, but are exceedingly rare. Under the convergence of ideal and unlikely circumstances, dermagardens have self-formed on livestock, birds, and most rarely, people. Such colonizations are usually short-lived and not reoccurring.

It is a sacred tradition for high-ranking Cathectics to cultivate dermagardens around their head, face, and neck. Cathectic portraiture provides opportunities to observe the extent and sheer variety of these modifications, though select, generally initiated individuals have witnessed these holy Cathectic dermagardens firsthand.