Physarum Polycephalum Slime Mold (IMAGE) University of California - Santa Cruz Caption The slime mold Physarum polycephalum develops a network of interconnected tubes as it explores the environment for food. An algorithm inspired by its growth patterns enabled astronomers to see the structure of the cosmic web that connects all galaxies. Credit Frankenstoen/CC BY Usage Restrictions CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5) License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.