According to @danheld, the Bitcoin Layer-2 network Botanix has launched its mainnet, a significant development for the Bitcoin (BTC) ecosystem. The network is designed to be fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), enabling developers to port Ethereum-based applications directly onto Bitcoin. This launch dramatically reduces block times from the standard 10 minutes to just five seconds, potentially increasing transaction throughput and enhancing the user experience for Bitcoin DeFi (BTCFi). The project aims to unlock the vast liquidity of BTC for decentralized finance applications. Botanix is launching with a decentralized governance structure supported by 16 node operators, including prominent firms like Galaxy Digital and Fireblocks, which adds a layer of security and trust for potential investors and users. In conjunction with the mainnet, new BTCFi products have also debuted, such as the BTC-backed stablecoin Palladium and the decentralized exchange Bitzy, creating new trading and yield opportunities within the Bitcoin ecosystem.