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In Ghostbusters, the ghosts leave behind slime ("ectoplasm"). Why would ethereal beings leave behind slime? What's the in-universe explanation of this?

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    Out of universe - sort of - wikipedia has an article about why ghosts leave behind ectoplasm. Although it doesn't sound like the same type of stuff in the movie.
    – Izkata
    Commented Jun 17, 2012 at 4:56
  • An in-universe explanation for "ghosts are made of ectoplasm, which sounds like it should be slimy"? Sorry, no.
    – Gorchestopher H
    Commented Jun 17, 2012 at 18:01

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Per Tobin's Spirit Guide:

Ectoplasm: A thick, viscous substance, ectoplasm is formed when ghosts interact with the physical world. Usually seen as a viscous, mucuslike slime, ectoplasm has also been encountered in mistlike and even crystalline forms.

Ectoplasm Residue: identifies areas of paranormal contact or interaction. While some ectoplasm can be seen with the naked eye, Ectoplasmic Residue can only be seen while using the P.K.E.-enhanced Paragoggles.

Both are from Ghostbusters: The Video Game (realistic version), the last I heard, this version is considered canon by Dan Akroyd

From the Ghostbuster's wiki page for Ectoplasm:

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    If Dan Akroyd says it it must be true!
    – zipquincy
    Commented Jul 6, 2012 at 20:52
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    Hey, it works for George Lucas!
    – Ryan
    Commented Jul 17, 2012 at 17:02

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