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Chernobyl’s ruins, where no species dared to survive, are now home to strange radiation-powered fungi
- Fungi in the Chernobyl exclusion zone may convert gamma radiation into chemical energy, helping them grow in highly radioactive areas.
- Scientists observed radiotropism, where some fungi appear to direct their growth toward radiation sources.
- Researchers note radioactivity-tolerant fungi could inform future space shielding and bioremediation efforts on Earth.
- The fungi thrive by melanin-rich pigment, which in these organisms supports radiosynthesis rather than UV protection.
- The discovery dates back to observations in 1991 of dark patches spreading across the reactor walls.
- Experts see potential for bioremediation of radioactive sites using radiosynthetic fungi.
- The fungi's resilience illustrates life evolving in extreme environments, beyond conventional expectations.
- Researchers emphasize the need to understand long-term ecological impacts of these fungi in the exclusion zone.
- The study highlights potential cross-domain applications from space to terrestrial cleanup.
- Overall, the findings open new questions about life’s adaptability in radiation-rich zones.
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