Thanks BenLurkin.
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Posted on 01/28/2016 6:28:56 PM PST by BenLurkin
After a year-and-a-half long voyage aboard the International Space Station, a group of fungi collected from Antarctica has proven its ability to withstand harsh, Mars-like conditions.
More than half of the cells remained intact over the course of the 18-month study, providing new insight for the possibility of life on Mars.
These fungal samples, along with lichens from Spain and Austria, have allowed European researchers to assess the survivability and stability of microscopic lifeforms on the red planet.
The tiny fungi taken from Antarctica are typically found in the cracks of rocks in this dry, hostile region.
Scientists took samples of two species of cryptoendolithic fungi – Cryomyces antarcticus and Cryomyces minteri – from the McMurdo Dry Valleys of the Antarctic Victoria Land.
These microorganisms, along with certain lichens, are the only creatures capable of surviving the harsh environment, where even ice and snow are no match against the extreme winds.
Researchers placed the fungi in 1.4 cm wide cells on a platform called EXPOSE-E, which simulated Mars and extreme space conditions.
(Excerpt) Read more at dailymail.co.uk ...
But the Space Station is not on Mars. ;-)
Andromeda Strain?
“Specimen: Unknown” a first season of The Outer Limits parallels this story.
What is PETAs stance on this unfair/harsh treatment of fungi?
“What is PETAs stance on this unfair/harsh treatment of fungi?”
Good question. Let’s ask our resident FR expert.
Good question, need some time, will get back to you....however, I am not in favor of any abuse or hatred of fungi....
I’ll go with that answer. Good one.
Thanks BenLurkin.
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Mutant Fungus From Space!!
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