MARINE BIODIVERISTY CENTER
Science of Slime
Let’s explore the Science of Slime!
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and Nickelodeon are joining forces to bring you a kid-friendly exploration of goo. Discover how different species use slime to survive, from squid ink to snail trails to bubble-blowing insects. You will never see nature’s sliminess the same way again!
Where is slime in nature?
Just about everywhere! Some creatures need it to move, others use it to communicate. There’s a whole world of slime out there and so much to learn from it. Click on each of the icons below to discover how some of nature’s slimiest creatures use it to survive.
KELP
Kelp slime is important to the underwater communities around kelp beds
SNAILS AND SLUGS
These soft-bodied invertebrates use slime to stick to surfaces and float through the ocean
FISH
Slime helps fish stay healthy and slip away from predators
INSECTS
Ladybugs, grasshoppers, and other insects use a cool slime trick to protect themselves from potential predators
AMPHIBIANS
Amphibians use toxic slime to defend themselves and keep their skin moist
BRISTLE WORMS
Marine worms use slime to catch their food and avoid being eaten themselves
Meet the Experts!
Get to know our scientists and learn mind-blowing facts about the slimy species they study.
Take a virtual tour!
Follow along on a slime-inspired journey through our halls and behind the scenes into our collections.
Did you know? Many parrotfishes create a protective mucus cocoon when they sleep!
Try it Yourself!
Explore step-by-step guides and DIY activities to test out your discoveries at home.
Become a Community Scientist
Join ongoing projects to help researchers get to know the nature in your backyard and neighborhood!
Share your experience!
See how others are participating in Science of Slime at home and share your mind-blown experiences tagging #ScienceofSlime and #MindBlownLA
A partnership between NHM and Nickelodeon
