Moss that can endure extreme cold and radiation might be able to survive on Mars.

Syntrichia caninervis is known for its ability to survive in some of the harshest environments on Earth, such as deserts and arctic regions. Its resilience to extreme conditions suggests it could be a candidate for studying potential survival on Mars.

A resilient moss, Syntrichia caninervis, found in some of Earth’s most extreme environments, such as deserts and polar regions, has shown remarkable survival capabilities under harsh conditions. Researchers, including Xiaoshuang Li from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography in China, subjected this moss to severe tests to assess its potential for Mars colonization.

The moss was tested at temperatures as low as -80°C and -196°C and exposed to high levels of gamma radiation. It survived and regenerated after being stored at these extreme temperatures and even showed resilience to radiation doses up to 500 Gray units (Gy). This is notable because most plants cannot tolerate radiation levels above 50Gy, and doses over 8000Gy typically cause severe damage.

When placed in a simulated Martian environment—characterized by 95% carbon dioxide, temperature variations from -60°C to 20°C, high UV radiation, and low atmospheric pressure—the moss was able to regenerate fully after 30 days, despite only a week in the simulator.

However, the study did not address the impact of perchlorates, toxic chemicals commonly found in Martian soil, which could affect the moss’s survival. David Eldridge from the University of New South Wales notes that while the moss might survive on Mars, its ability to thrive under constant extreme conditions remains questionable.

Sharon Robinson from the University of Wollongong points out that while the moss could potentially contribute to Mars’ ecosystem by photosynthesizing and producing some oxygen, its practical benefits and survival potential in the long term are still uncertain. Additionally, the moss might serve as a habitat for other hardy organisms like tardigrades.