Dark matter



Dark Matter is an obstacle in Super Mario Galaxy, and its sequel Super Mario Galaxy 2, which appears in Bowser's Dark Matter Plant. It can be found in patches, and has a swirly, purple and black appearance to it. If Mario or Luigi touch any Dark Matter, they disintegrate and lose a life. Dark Matter can also burn holes in the ground that make Mario or Luigi lose a life should they fall into one.

In its sequel, they are found rarely in the game. One of its appearances was the Daredevil Run for Bowser Jr.'s Boom Bunker. A Mattermouth will eat the Dark Matter away.

Trivia

 * In reality, Dark Matter is a theoretical substance that takes up a significant portion of the universe. It does not emit nor absorb a significant level of radiation of any sort, making it difficult to detect.
 * Dark Matter is also the name of a recurring boss in the Kirby series.