The Reticulomyxa plasmodium may encyst for dispersal or in response to adverse environmental conditions. Cysts with and without coverings have been produced by Reticulomyxa. Cysts covered with a thick envelope can withstand harsher conditions and disperse by wind as well as water. Covered cells were only observed to form during summer months in culture conditions. Uncovered cysts are smooth and have irregular sizes. These uncovered resting cysts were produced in culture conditions in response unfavorable environmental conditions like low temperatures or when nutrient availability was low.
