Macrophotography - Grigit Fungi in the Rainy Season

in CCS2 months ago (edited)

Macrophotography - Grigit Fungi in the Rainy Season

IMG-20240812-WA0026.jpg

Squirrel fungi, or better known as Myxomycetes, are a group of fungi that are also often referred to as slime molds. Although they are called "fungi," they are actually organisms that have properties similar to fungi and amoebas.

Squirrel fungi have an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers and bacteria eaters, as well as in scientific research because of their complex and interesting life cycle.


IMG-20240812-WA0023.jpg

IMG-20240812-WA0019.jpg


In the plasmodium phase, squirrel fungi look like a mass of colorful slime and can move around looking for food, such as bacteria and detritus. After this phase, they form spores that allow them to survive in less than supportive environmental conditions.

IMG-20240812-WA0018.jpg

IMG-20240812-WA0011.jpg

IMG-20240812-WA0009.jpg


IMG-20240812-WA0007.jpg

IMG-20240812-WA0003.jpg

IMG-20240812-WA0005.jpg

Squirrel fungi have a unique life cycle, where they initially exist in the form of free-moving amoeba cells that can fuse to form a multicellular structure called a plasmodium. This plasmodium will then develop into a structure that produces spores, which will later be spread and grow into new individuals.

Regards @sisol