Leocarpus fragilis is found worldwide, and typically inhabits shady, cool, moist areas, growing on decaying leaves and logs.
The main vegetative phase of this organism consists of the plasmodium (the active, mobile, streaming phase), a membrane-bound, giant single cell, containing multiple nuclei. It is during this stage that the organism searches for food, creeping across decaying matter, spreading at an impressive rate, up to an inch per hour! The plasmodium surrounds its food and secretes enzymes to digest it. The plasmodium generates networks of protoplasmic ‘veins’ that act as tunnels for nutrient transport.