I've read what I can find in the Codex Tau and Kroot Mercenary List, but unfortunately I don't have access to the Black Library book Xenology, so I'm not sure if this information is contained therein.
Is the Kroot evolution spurred by the actual consumption of advantageous biomatter, or is it dependent upon a Kroot's (especially a Shaper's) intuitive abilities to utilize that biomatter? Codex Tau p10 implies that the Shaper devours and analyzes a prey animal, then directs others in its kindred to do the same if the prey is suitable. It seems that the catalyst of the evolution, then, is the consumption and digestion of the prey animal. However, further down on the same page we find that Kroot seem to have the ability to choose the mutations to their DNA, suggesting that a Kroot could effectively eat whatever it liked but simply choose not to integrate any traits into the genetic code.
I'm asking because of a piece of short fiction I'm writing in which a young Kroot is chastised for mis-eating. If consumption itself leads to mutations (especially in a young, inexperienced member of the kindred), the scene would work. If it is instead guided by a Shaper or if even the youngest of Kroot can guide the process, I suppose I'll think of something else instead!
Thanks much
Is the Kroot evolution spurred by the actual consumption of advantageous biomatter, or is it dependent upon a Kroot's (especially a Shaper's) intuitive abilities to utilize that biomatter? Codex Tau p10 implies that the Shaper devours and analyzes a prey animal, then directs others in its kindred to do the same if the prey is suitable. It seems that the catalyst of the evolution, then, is the consumption and digestion of the prey animal. However, further down on the same page we find that Kroot seem to have the ability to choose the mutations to their DNA, suggesting that a Kroot could effectively eat whatever it liked but simply choose not to integrate any traits into the genetic code.
I'm asking because of a piece of short fiction I'm writing in which a young Kroot is chastised for mis-eating. If consumption itself leads to mutations (especially in a young, inexperienced member of the kindred), the scene would work. If it is instead guided by a Shaper or if even the youngest of Kroot can guide the process, I suppose I'll think of something else instead!
Thanks much
