GMU:Habitats SS18/Physarum Polycephalum: Difference between revisions

“Slime mold is an informal name given to several kinds of unrelated eukaryotic organisms that can live freely as single cells, but aggregate together to form multicellular reproductive structures.”(Wikipedia a) Slime molds belong to Protista, that is neither animal, nor fungi nor bacteria. They feed on microorganisms. “When food is in short supply, many of these single-celled organisms will congregate and start moving as a single body. In this state they are sensitive to airborne chemicals and can detect food sources. They can readily change the shape and function of parts and may form stalks that produce fruiting bodies, releasing countless spores”(Wikipedia a)

"Physarum polycephalum, literally the "many-headed slime", is a slime mold that inhabits shady, cool, moist areas, such as decaying leaves and logs. Like slime molds in general, it is sensitive to light; in particular, light can repel the slime mold and be a factor in triggering spore growth."(wikipedia b) It feeds on bacteria, spores and other microbial creatures.