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Myxomycetes, commonly known as true slime molds, are a group of fungus-like organisms that exhibit characteristics of both protozoa and fungi. They are found worldwide, typically in damp, decaying organic matter.12

The active, feeding stage of a Myxomycete is a plasmodium, a multinucleate mass that moves and engulfs bacteria, yeast, molds, and other fungi. This plasmodium eventually develops into fruiting structures called sporangia, which contain spores. When conditions are favorable, these spores germinate into individual cells called myxamoebas, which can then transform into swarm cells capable of swimming. These organisms are not classified as fungi but rather as protists.21

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