Microscopic Amoeba Discovered Surviving Extreme Heat in Volcanic Springs
A newly discovered microscopic amoeba, Incendiamoeba cascadensis, can reproduce at 63°C and survive 70°C in volcanic springs, challenging prior limits of cellular survival.
Scientists in California have discovered a new species of microscopic amoeba, named Incendiamoeba cascadensis, thriving and reproducing in boiling water at 63°C, and recovering after exposure to 70°C. Funded by NASA, laboratory experiments revealed that the organism maintains cell division at 63°C and survives five minutes at 70°C, with internal systems collapsing only at 80°C.
Operating as a predator in its volcanic hot spring environment, the amoeba feeds on heat-adapted bacteria. It utilizes specialized protective mechanisms and rapid DNA repair systems to prevent thermal damage, sparking significant interest among astrobiologists studying the potential for extraterrestrial life in extreme environments.
