Haiku for C. nivalis
Arctic blush
on snow-capped peaks
red pigments,
heart healing,
Better than wine.
- Dr. JeM YinJoy
How to pronounce Chlamydomas Nivalis. Chlamydomas nivalis - Clammy-doe-mahs Nye-vahl-is
The red snow created by the microbe, C. nivalis
brings energy and hope for survival to the many arctic creatures that depend on eating this microbe. When winter snow has covered up other sources of nourishment, C. nivalis is there to provide a food source to the creatures that seek it out.
And she is a brightly colored red, for easy identification against the white snow.
The stark contrast of crimson tracks upon pure whiteness, reminds us that we are fascinated by unusual differences in our world, and mysteries of nature yet to be solved.
Red has been used by humans during the winter, to celebrate various holidays, including Christmas and Saturnalia.
Like holly berries that sustain birds through the colder months in the more temperate regions, C. nivalis provides a bright message to the creatures flying or flitting or buzzing about the snow covered slopes of the mountains. This is where C. nivalis is simply producing red pigments for her own photosynthetic activities.
The cells of C. nivalis imbue ice crystals so brightly with her red pigment that the tint is evocative of watermelon fruit flesh, or a red snow cone.
C. Nivalis teaches us to be grateful for our curious minds that seek to tease out the reason for something not yet understood.
C. nivalis also teaches us that if we have something to offer our world, do not be afraid to show everyone what you’ve got, in the loudest, brightest most attractive way you can muster.
by Dr. JeM YinJoy
Comments 2
This is amazing. I haven’t had the time to really delve into your cards, but it appears that you have done something really fastinating. I’ve got the microscope at my house now and hope to explore very soon. Thanks for your insightfulness.
I would like to, with your permission, add you as an instructor/advisor to the Highland Folk School which is planned for the HHH once construction is completed about a year from now. I hope we can talk again soon.
Thank you Pam. Your folk school sounds fantastic. I’d be honored to train budding microbe whisperers there. JeM YinJoy