Shadow Mold

Written by Douglysium

Shadow mold is the nickname given to a variation of slime mold known as physarum polycephalum tenebris. Like all slime mold, it is a simple organism that consists of an acellular mass of creeping gelatinous protoplasm containing nuclei, or a mass of amoeboid cells. These cells get their name from the fact that they appear to be like living slime to the naked eye when enough of them gather. Shadow Mold prefers damp and dark places and has some sort of connection to shadow magic. So much so that it is rumored that the species was created by Umbra, the god of giant squid. The species is known to gather in shadows and darkness. Disguising itself as part of them and waiting for potential prey to walk by. When suitable prey makes contact with this slime it will immediately begin to release adhesive and digestive enzymes that make quick work of small prey. Shadow mold has also been known to harm larger creatures, such as humanoid mortals. If one mistakenly enters a large enough gathering of shadow mold without protection the creatures will attempt to eat them, which can cause physical damage. Apparently, if enough shadow mold gathers in a spot it can digest entire limbs in a second. However, this occurring is so rare that many consider it to be a rumor or overexaggeration. There are also myths that detail shadow mold consuming entire elephants. Shadow mold quickly disperses when exposed to strong enough light, and it is considered to be a pest as it can gather in parts of homes or buildings that are not very well lit.

Some manipulate shadow mold as living shadows with magic.

Scientific Name

Physarum polycephalum

Conservation Status

Least Concern