( Myxomycetes sp.)
These are fascinating organisms which exhibit characteristics of both animals and fungi, and are now believed to be the most important rotifers in the soil. In their feeding or trophic stage, they move about as a mass of protoplasm (plasmodium) devouring bacteria, spores and other organic matter. Research has discovered that the largest living entity is a slime mould measuring many miles accross, the individual 'amoebae' live as a multicellular mass communicating by chemical signals. They are classified in a separate Kingdom - the Protoctista. Many have symbiotic associations with plants, similar to the Mycorrhizal Fungi.
They can be found as a white or yellow film (the plasmodium) under stones and logs, but the most obvious siting is on grass or other low-growing plants, during wet periods. Slimey, frothy or powdery, cream-coloured clusters of fruiting bodies, produced when conditions are unfavourable for the mould, smother blades of grass. After releasing their spores they turn grey. The whole clump looks like a patch of scrambled eggs which may look unsightly, but does not appear to harm the grass.
Brush away or wash off with a hose if necessary. Poor drainage can contribute to their appearance in lawns so spiking should help.
If they return regularly, an application of Mancozeb, Zineb or a copper fungicide should control them, but do remember they could be essential to the health of your soil.
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