Rhizomycetes

Rhizomycetes is a class of fungi that includes the slime molds, which are often referred to as "true slime molds" to distinguish them from the false slime molds, which are actually protists. This class is characterized by its unique life cycle, which alternates between a motile, unicellular phase and a non-motile, multicellular phase. The motile phase, known as the plasmodial stage, is a single, multinucleate cell that can move and feed on bacteria and other microorganisms. During the non-motile phase, the plasmodium differentiates into fruiting bodies, which produce spores that can disperse and initiate new plasmodia. Rhizomycetes are found in various habitats, including soil, leaf litter, and decaying vegetation. They play a role in nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the environment. The study of Rhizomycetes is important for understanding the ecology of fungi and their interactions with other organisms.