super intelligence

Physarum polycephalum - the "Magneto" of slime mold

Intelligence is usually attributed to humans and the brain. We sometimes recognize animals like dolphins or crows that display high levels of intelligence. Yet, before the turn of the century, a single-celled organism was found to display intelligence. Meet Physarum polycephalum, or simply Physarum-a mold that defies expectations. It navigates mazes, solves puzzles, and adapts like a master problem solver, all without a traditional brain. Imagine a Magneto of the slime mold world, wielding intelligence without a centralized control center!

How were they discovered?

Since an experiment conducted by a Japanese scientist Dr. Toshiyuki Nakagaki in 2000, Physarum proved its ability to consistently find the shortest route through a maze.

What makes its power unique?

It has established itself as a model for single-cell intelligence through its ability to make decisions, optimize transport networks, and anticipate periodic events, although it may not look the part. In its environment, Physarum is a characteristic bright yellow, with branching “veins” and circular blobs making up its structure.

Why does it need this power?

The structure allows Physarum to move through its environment, and perform an action called chemotaxis. This mechanism is common in bacteria and other systems like white blood cells, and allows and organism or a cell to move toward or away from a chemical signal.

What can we learn by studying this organism?

With their unique ability to move towards nutrients and shape-shift, Physarum represents the incredible versatility and adaptability of life at the smallest scale!

What do Physarum look like in real life?

Watch slime mold form a map of the Tokyo-area railway system!