Can multicellular life be sustained with gamma rays?

In summary, there is a type of fungus that can get its energy from gamma rays, but there is no evidence that multicellular life can do the same. This discovery may broaden the potential areas for life to thrive in the universe.
  • #1
Nightvid Cole
7
3
If there are bacteria that can get their energy from gamma rays (thus thriving on nuclear reactors), can multicellular life do it too?

If so, wouldn't that broaden the parts of the universe where life could arise?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Nightvid Cole said:
there are bacteria that can get their energy from gamma rays (thus thriving on nuclear reactors)
Is this true? Do you have a source for this claim? There are certainly bacteria that are quite resistant to ionizing radiation, but none that I know can convert gamma rays into useable energy.
 
  • #3
I agree, I think there is a big "IF" in that first sentence. I've never heard of such a thing either. Ionizing radiation tends to do too much damage on the microscopic level to be useful. Maybe there's a mechanism for converting reactive oxygen species into useful energy?
 
  • #4
  • Like
Likes Drakkith and Ygggdrasil

Related to Can multicellular life be sustained with gamma rays?

1. Can multicellular life survive exposure to gamma rays?

The short answer is no. Gamma rays are a form of high energy radiation that can damage living cells and DNA. Exposure to gamma rays can lead to mutations and cell death, making it difficult for multicellular life to survive.

2. Is there any evidence of multicellular life surviving in environments with high levels of gamma rays?

While there are some extremophile organisms that are known to survive in harsh environments, such as deep sea vents or acidic lakes, there is currently no evidence of multicellular life surviving in environments with high levels of gamma rays.

3. Can gamma rays be used to promote the growth of multicellular organisms?

No, gamma rays are not known to have any beneficial effects on the growth or development of multicellular organisms. In fact, exposure to gamma rays can be harmful and even lethal to living cells.

4. Are there any potential risks associated with using gamma rays to sustain multicellular life?

Yes, there are several risks associated with using gamma rays to sustain multicellular life. As mentioned before, exposure to gamma rays can lead to mutations and cell death. Additionally, there is a risk of gamma rays causing harm to the environment and other living organisms.

5. Are there any ongoing studies or research on the possibility of sustaining multicellular life with gamma rays?

While there may be some studies on the effects of gamma rays on living organisms, there is currently no research or evidence to suggest that gamma rays can sustain multicellular life. The focus of most research on gamma rays is on their harmful effects and ways to protect living organisms from exposure to them.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
6
Views
839
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
312
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
184
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
906
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
492
Back
Top