Physarum polycephalum ‘Day Walker’

Description

Scientific name: Physarum polycephalum
Common name: Day Walker Slime Mould

Native Habitat

Physarum polycephalum ‘day walker’ naturally occurs in damp woodland environments across much of the world. It inhabits decaying logs, leaf litter, and other organic-rich habitats.

There, it feeds on bacteria, fungal spores, microorganisms, and decomposing organic matter. Consequently, it plays an important role in nutrient recycling within natural ecosystems.

Interestingly, slime moulds also provide a food source for some springtail species. Therefore, they form part of many natural microfaunal communities.

Care Information

Physarum polycephalum ‘Day Walker’ is one of the most unusual organisms available in the hobby. Unlike animals, plants, or fungi, it belongs to a group known as protists.

Despite lacking a brain or nervous system, it can solve mazes and optimise pathways. Furthermore, it can locate food sources and adapt to changing conditions.

As it grows, this remarkable organism forms bright golden networks across surfaces. Consequently, cultures provide a fascinating and highly interactive display.

Temperature: 20-26°C
Humidity: High humidity
Diet: Oat flakes and other suitable carbohydrate sources
Difficulty: Easy

Maintain cultures on moist paper towel, agar, or similar culture media. Additionally, provide constant access to moisture to encourage active growth.

Avoid allowing cultures to dry out completely. Otherwise, the organism may enter a dormant state until conditions improve.

While Day Walker tolerates light better than many cultures, it performs best away from prolonged direct sunlight.

Growth & Propagation

Under suitable conditions, active cultures grow rapidly and expand into complex branching networks. As a result, they can cover surprisingly large areas while searching for food.

When resources become scarce, the organism can form dormant structures. Subsequently, growth resumes once favourable conditions return.

Regular feeding and stable humidity encourage continuous expansion. Therefore, cultures can remain active and productive for extended periods.

Captive-Bred Details

All cultures are captive propagated and supplied live, active, and ready to grow. Furthermore, each culture offers an opportunity to observe one of nature’s most extraordinary lifeforms.

Whether you are a bioactive keeper, educator, science enthusiast, or collector, this species delivers a unique experience. Ultimately, few organisms offer the same combination of beauty, behaviour, and scientific interest.

Supplied as a Live Active Culture

🟡 Live Active Culture | 🧠 Remarkable Problem-Solving Behaviour | 🌿 Easy to Maintain