A Simple Method of Growing the Plasmodial Slime Mold Physarum polycephalum
Physarum polycephalum can be easily grown in its yellow plasmodial stage and in its flagellated stage. With a little care and attention your plasmodium will flourish and perhaps startle you with amazing growth and an ability to escape from almost any container. Keep in mind that slime molds are sensitive to the following: light (they don't like light but light does help trigger spore formation); an excess of water; and not enough moisture.
Growing Plasmodia
Materials:
- Petri dish (glass or plastic, need not be sterile) or other suitable container.
- Paper towels (white is best, brown will work).
- Old Fashioned Oatmeal Flakes (not the instant).
- Tap water.
- A plasmodium or sclerotium-available from biological supply houses.