Lycogala epidendrum

Lycogala epidendrum is a type of fungus that looks like a tiny ball or blob with a slimy texture and a dark purple or brown color. It's also known as wolf's milk or toothpaste slime, because it can look like white toothpaste when it first emerges.

But instead of being a living creature like you or your pet, Lycogala epidendrum is a type of organism that lives and grows all around us in nature. It's part of a larger group of organisms called slime molds.

Lycogala epidendrum starts its life as tiny spores, which can float in the air or be carried by animals or people. When these spores land on a damp surface, they begin to grow and multiply. They form a network of tiny tubes that spread out and explore the area around them, searching for food to eat.

Eventually, these tubes come together and form a small ball or blob. This ball or blob is made up of lots of individual cells that work together to keep the fungus alive and growing. It can often be found on decaying wood, in a moist forest floor, or on top of leaf litter.

As the fungus grows, it starts to produce a slimy substance that helps it move around and protect itself. This slime can be used as a defense mechanism against predators, or to help it move towards sources of food. In fact, Lycogala epidendrum is known for its ability to "slug" across surfaces, leaving behind a trail of slime as it goes.

Eventually, after a few weeks of growth, Lycogala epidendrum will release its spores back into the air, starting the cycle all over again. While it may not look like much, this little fungus plays an important role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead plant and animal matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil.