The Anima is a radiation-like phenomenon that permeates the entirety of the OTHERWHERE and exists in trace concentrations HERE. Classified as a non-ionising, biologically integrated field, the Anima is regarded as one of the most foundational elements of the OTHERWHERE’s anomalous ecosystem.
Distribution
In the OTHERWHERE, the Anima is uniformly distributed, saturating all known zones and structures. HERE, the Anima exists at measurably lower concentrations, generally undetectable without specialised equipment. However, its presence is consistent and verifiable in all known biomes HERE.
Genetic Properties
The Anima appears to functions as a genomic archive and projector. It contains the entire genetic history of all terrestrial life forms, including extinct, undocumented, and theoretical species. Encoded within it are all historical and present genomes, down to individual-specific variations, as well as every projected future mutation or adaptation, regardless of likelihood. The Anima is non-static, updating in real time to reflect any and all genetic changes, mutations, or anomalies as they occur across living organisms.
Biological Implications
Overexposure to concentrated Anima has been linked to increased mutation rates, oncogenesis (cancer development), and anomalous traits in both flora and fauna. Anima deprivation, particularly in environments that are entirely sealed off or intentionally shielded from the field, results in rapid onset of cellular degradation, mirroring acute radiation syndrome, and reproductive failure, including sterility, miscarriage, and disrupted embryonic development.
These effects suggest that the Anima plays an essential role in the genomic stability and long-term viability of all Earth-based life, regardless of location or adaptation. While the exact mechanisms remain under investigation, it is theorised that continued access to Anima radiation may be required for proper DNA repair, replication, and epigenetic regulation.