Life in death …
The attached macro images show the plasmodium, transitional stage and sporangia of the plasmodial slime mould Ceratiomyxa porioides living on the heavily decayed remains of a dead beech tree. Despite their small size slime moulds must surely be one of the most fascinating organisms to grace the natural world. Next time you pass the decaying remains of a tree, it need only be a small branch, stop and take a closer look - you’ll need a hand lens for many species - and see if you are not enchanted by their diversity and beauty.
Please note: Some authors regard C. porioides as a var. of C. fruticulosa.
References:
O’Reilly, P. (2016). Fascinated by Fungi – exploring the majesty and mystery, facts and fantasy of the quirkiest kingdom on earth. Llandysul: First Nature, pp.78-79.
Sterry, P. and Hughes. B. (2009). Collins Complete Guide to British Mushrooms and Toadstools. London: HarperCollins, p. 334-335.
http://www.mycobank.org/name/Ceratiomyxa%20porioides&Lang=Eng