Halgerd

Atmosphere: Breatheable mix
Temperature: Temperate
Biosphere: Human-miscible
Population: Several million inhabitants
Tech Level: TL4

The plant-like organisms on this planet are an odd balance of smaller trees, shrubs, grasses and flowers. Each of which is almost entirely made up of pest-like species, with a tendency to completely overgrow everything, were it not for their competitor pests to keep them in check. In the midst of these pest battles, fungi, bushes and some non pest flowers and grasses manage to grow quite successfully. Nutrients are always needed but not always around, so organisms have to find ways to get them. Common ways are using different roots to find them in deep or shallow grounds or even stealing them from others, but on this planet many species have found a different balance. Unlike most plants on Earth who tend to only produce oxygen and nutrients, usually in the form of sugars, for itself, the organisms on this planet also produce other forms of nutrients for itself, usually for different purposes. These processes often lead to many byproducts which it doesn't need and are thus discarded. These discarded products are exactly what other species need to live and in turn produce byproducts it discards for the other organisms, leading to a delicate balance.   The underwater world of this planet is truly a feast for the eyes. Thousands of different soft and hard coral species cover the ocean floors, most of which have a form of bio-luminescence, which makes the night even more magical than the day. These bio-luminescent corals offer homes to plenty of creatures, which they need to be cleaned, while at the same time trying to attract the very same creatures with their lights so they can eat them. A truly remarkable balance.   Hidden in the depths of this planet's oceans are a species of sentient creatures who made their home in the most hostile environments imaginable. These creatures look like a cross between jellyfish and giant squids, but have the intelligence comparable to that of dolphins. These intelligent creatures are surrounded by a plethora of fish, crustaceans and other aquatic creatures unseen on Earth. In contrast to this aquatic world, the surface world is relatively dull. Amphibians and insects rule this world, but while they may not be anywhere near as interesting as the sentient creatures of the depth, they did evolve in remarkable ways.