Jelly Mistry

[NellyDee]

This has appeared – small patches on road and bigger patches on the verge near bridge over burn. I have done a google search found this explanation –

“Many people, including Sarah Longrigg who sent this picture, suggested slime moulds as an explanation. An algae expert consulted by BBC Scotland was clear the sample he saw was not a plant-like organism”.

Have you any idea as to what it could be? Using a stick I tried to see if there was anything in the ‘bubbles’ but it just spread out in a clear see through slime. It has no smell.

[Waxcap]

Hi,

Often called “Star Jelly” it’s probably unfertilised frog spawn.

from the RSPB spokesperson

“If the animal is attacked by a predator – herons for instance are fond of the occasional frog – it will quite naturally drop its spawn and the associated glycoprotein. This is designed to swell on contact with water, which gives the gelatinous mass we are all familiar with in frog spawn. However, if it’s unfertilized, it is just the empty glycoprotein that is dropped – which on contact with moist ground will swell and give a clear, slime-like substance. “

[NellyDee]

Thank you Waxcap. Your answer very much appreciated.

[Author]

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