In cell biology, ectoplasm is the viscous fluid found inside living cells, in which organelles are suspended. It consists primarily of water, but also contains some proteins and other organic compounds

In parapsychology, ectoplasm is the name given to a hypothetical form of dense bio-energy liberated by living things which is claimed to make possible the materialization of ghosts and psychokinesis. In the early twentieth century photographs claiming to show ectoplasm were occasionally published; these were shown to be fraudulent. Often the medium would have concealed cheesecloth about their person to produce at an appropriate moment.

Many people still hold out faith that ectoplasm exists, but as of yet, no solid evidence for it has been found. Parapsychologists have tried to use different photographic filters to find ectoplasm, but usually what has been found is simply an odd light, which may be the filters corrupting the picture.

Ectoplasm is belived by spiritulists to project it self from people during meditation.

See also

• Aura
• Kirlian photography