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What Is Slime Mold?

The world is home to hundreds of slime mold species in a wide range of colors, but are they actually a fungus? If not, what the heck are they?

By Stephen C. George
Apr 21, 2023 6:00 PM
Dog Vomit Slime Mold
Dog Vomit Slime Mold (Credit: Henri Koskinen/Shutterstock)

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Pity the poor slime mold. As if that name itself wasn’t bad enough, some species have even worse monikers, like dog vomit or scrambled egg slime. And despite the fact that they come in many striking shapes and colors, even the researchers who study them have to admit that many slime molds aren’t going to win you any lawn-and-garden contests if you find them growing in your flowerbed or mulch pile.

But in their own quiet way, they are much cooler — and smarter — than most people realize. Here are some facts about slime mold. 

Is Slime Mold a Fungus?

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