Indian Myxomycetes: A Comprehensive Review and Future Prospects

Abstract

Myxomycetes, commonly called slime molds or plasmodial slime molds, are a unique group of protists combining features of both protozoans and fungi. Nearly 535 species have been recorded from India, reflecting its remarkable diversity for this group of organisms. Although earlier reviews have largely emphasized taxonomy, comparatively little focus has been placed on ecological, cultural, and applied aspects of myxomycetes. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of Indian contributions, integrating taxonomic, ecological, experimental, and applied perspectives, and highlights emerging research directions and future prospects in the field.