Scientists Have Found a Plant That Can Lose 98% of Its Water and Still Grow on Mars
The Daily Galaxy • • science
Key Points:
- Syntrichia caninervis, a desert moss known for its extreme resilience, is being studied as a potential pioneer species for colonizing Mars due to its ability to survive harsh conditions similar to those on the Red Planet.
- This moss endures extreme temperatures down to -196°C and can survive near-total dehydration, recovering moisture when rehydrated, making it a strong candidate for sustaining life in space environments.
- Syntrichia caninervis shows notable resistance to high levels of cosmic radiation, including gamma rays, which are prevalent on Mars due to its thin atmosphere, enhancing its viability for long-term space missions.
- Beyond survival, the moss may help modify Martian soil by improving regolith composition and producing oxygen,
