A recent study published in IMA Fungus reveals that certain lichen species can endure conditions simulating the Martian environment, including exposure to ionizing radiation. This suggests that life could potentially survive on Mars.
Researchers exposed Diploschistes muscorum and Cetraria aculeata lichens to a simulated Martian atmosphere, pressure, temperature, and radiation for five hours. The fungal component of the lichen symbiosis remained metabolically active. D. muscorum demonstrated effective metabolic processes and defense mechanisms.
Lead author Kaja Skubała emphasized that the study demonstrates active fungal metabolism in a Mars-like environment. The research indicates that lichens could withstand high X-ray radiation levels from solar flares on Mars.
Further studies are recommended to investigate long-term radiation exposure and survival in actual Martian environments.