Desert moss could hold the key to terraforming Mars, according to a recent study by Chinese scientists. Due to its extraordinary resilience, Syntrichia caninervis (S. caninervis), a moss species found in extreme deserts from Tibet to Antarctica, is being touted as a ‘pioneer plant’ for creating a habitable environment on MarsScientists believe that this plant … Read more
Adding a small amount of water brought the moss back to life within seconds and resumed photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide into the oxygen and carbohydrates essential to human survival on any planet, the researchers wrote. “While there is still a long way to go to create self-sustaining habitats on other planets, we have the great … Read more
Phenotypic changes and physiological responses of S. caninervis plants during DR process. Credit: The innovation (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2024.100657 The desert moss Syntrichia caninervis is a promising candidate for colonization on Mars thanks to its extreme ability to endure harsh conditions that are lethal to most life forms. The moss is known for its ability to … Read more
While Matt Damon relied on potatoes grown in his crew’s biowaste in the hit film The Martian, researchers say it’s a simple desert moss that could be crucial to the emergence of life on Mars. Scientists in China say they have found it Syntrichia dogfish – a moss found in areas such as Antarctica and … Read more