Dictostylium
- noun
- Specialized
- A researcher found Dictostylium growing on a pile of decaying leaves in the forest.
Examples
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Species in the genus Dictostylium are often studied for their role in decomposition.
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The unique structure of Dictostylium distinguishes it from other slime molds in its environment.
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Researchers discovered a new species belonging to Dictostylium in the decaying leaves.
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Look at that Dictostylium over there!
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The Dictostylium species thrives in damp environments.
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Several species of Dictostylium play a vital role in breaking down organic matter.
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The scientist studied how Dictostylium contributes to nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Dictostylium can be remembered as if it mixes dicto- meaning 'net' and -stylium meaning 'little stalks', so imagine tiny stalks making a net on dung and dead plants. That's why the name fits this slime mold, which lives on dung and decaying vegetation.