That looks like a slime mold, most likely a plasmodial slime mold that has dried out on the surface.
These organisms are neither plants nor fungi (they’re in their own odd group called protists). When they’re active, they move as a gelatinous mass feeding on bacteria and organic debris. When conditions change (dryness, lack of food), they can “collapse” into weird crusty, branching shapes like the one in your photo.
Why it looks like that:
- The “finger-like” edges are the remnants of its spreading network
- The pale, leathery center is the dried plasmodium
- They often appear on damp tile, grout, wood, or bathroom/kitchen areas
Is it dangerous?
- No, slime molds are harmless to humans and pets
- They don’t damage structures in any serious way
What to do:
- Wipe it up with soap/disinfectant or a mild bleach solution
- Improve ventilation or reduce moisture if it keeps coming back
If you want, I can also tell you how to tell slime mold apart from fungal growth or insect-related stuff, since they can look pretty weird like this.
