Physarum

Physarum’s life cycle alternates between a haploid unicellular stage (amoeboid or flagellated cells) and a diploid multinucleate stage (plasmodium). Under favorable conditions, mature sporangia release spores that germinate into amoeboid cells. In dry environments, these cells form dormant microcysts capable of withstanding dehydration and nutrient scarcity, remaining viable until conditions improve, at which point they revive into active amoebae. Conversely, in excessively wet conditions, cells develop flagella and transition to a free-swimming form.

Cell fusion (syngamy or fertilization) between compatible cells gives rise to the multinucleate plasmodium. Under adverse conditions, such as desiccation, low temperature, or nutrient limitation, the plasmodium transforms into a hardened structure called a sclerotium, which remains dormant until conditions become favorable. When environmental conditions permit, the mature plasmodium forms sporangia, where spores are produced through meiosis. The release of these spores marks the start of a new life cycle.^[7]

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