Outdoor seating areas, common in urban and suburban environments, may have unintended ecological consequences on local myxomycete (slime mold) populations. These unique organisms thrive in moist, decaying organic matter, often found in natural settings. However, the introduction of benches, tables, and paved surfaces disrupts their habitats by altering moisture retention and organic debris availability.

Studies suggest that shaded seating areas with limited foot traffic can still support myxomycete growth if nearby vegetation or wood mulch is present. Conversely, heavily frequented or sun-exposed seating zones tend to reduce fungal biodiversity due to compaction and dehydration. Urban planners and ecologists are increasingly considering these impacts when designing public spaces to balance human convenience with microbial ecosystem preservation.

Interestingly, some myxomycete species adapt to anthropogenic environments, colonizing cracks in wooden benches or recycled-material furniture. Further research is needed to quantify long-term effects and identify mitigation strategies for preserving these ecologically important organisms in human-dominated landscapes.