Physarum polycephalum - AKA "The Blob"
In this fascinating fusion of science, art, and technology, we spotlight an extraordinary videography project featuring nature's most enigmatic performer - Physarum polycephalum, affectionately known as "the blob." This time-lapse masterpiece showcases the mesmerizing journey of this bright yellow organism as it explores a black agar landscape, set to an original musical score composed by Chief Science Officer Matthew Mazer.
The Perfect Stage
Creating the ideal environment for our microscopic performer required careful engineering. We constructed a custom studio setup that balanced the delicate needs of the organism with the technical requirements of professional videography. The stark contrast between the vibrant yellow blob and the black agar provided the perfect canvas for capturing every subtle movement and decision made by this fascinating organism.
Environmental Information for Filming
The success of this project hinged on several custom-built elements:
- Stable area that will not be disturbed for the duration
- Glass aquarium to prevent any dust or debris from interrupting the shot
- Specially stained agar to show up well for the camera
- White backdrop board to contrast the agar plate
- LED lighting system to illuminate the subject while maintaining optimal growing conditions
- Custom mini humidification system to keep the environment at the perfect moisture level
- Air pump to feed fresh air into the system
- Specialized time-lapse photography equipment to capture the blob's methodical exploration
The Musical Element
What sets this project apart is its unique soundtrack is an original composition by Matthew Mazer that complements the blob's fluid movements. The music adds another dimension to the viewing experience, transforming what could have been purely scientific documentation into an artistic journey.
Nature's Choreography
The resulting footage reveals the remarkable intelligence of Physarum polycephalum as it navigates its environment, creating efficient networks and making seemingly calculated decisions about its path. The time-lapse format compresses hours of movement into minutes, allowing viewers to appreciate the organism's remarkable behavior in a way that wouldn't be possible in real-time observation.
This project represents more than just a video - it's a testament to the intersection of science, art, and technology in modern mycological research. It showcases our commitment to not just studying these fascinating organisms, but sharing their beauty with the world in innovative ways.
