Slime moulds are saprophytic protists that move along decaying twigs and leaves to engulf organic material.

Under suitable (favourable) conditions, they form an aggregation called plasmodium, which can grow and spread over several feet.

During unfavourable conditions, this plasmodium differentiates and forms fruiting bodies (sporangia).

These fruiting bodies bear spores at their tips, which are extremely resistant, possess true walls, and can survive for many years.

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