In deserts, life can often seem impossible. But scientists keep discovering new ways that life can thrive in even the harshest environments.
In a recent study, researchers found something unexpected in the dry deserts of Namibia, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.
They discovered strange structures inside rocks that could point to the existence of previously unknown microorganisms, writes WP.
These tiny creatures might still be alive in the desert rocks, though it’s not yet clear if they are.
Geologist Cees Passchier, from Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, led the team that made the discovery.
They found unusual structures in limestone and marble rocks in the deserts. Erosion had worn away the outer layers, revealing corridors within the rocks.
While no living organisms were spotted in these tunnels, scientists detected signs of biological material.
The researchers believe the structures were likely formed by the presence of water. Water is key to life, but these areas are now dry.
However, they have had wetter periods in the past. Microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and lichens are known to survive in extreme conditions.
These organisms can live inside rocks, even in environments with little moisture.
The team’s findings suggest that liquid water played a role in the development of these structures.
Though the regions are dry today, occasional rainfall and coastal fog still bring moisture to the area. It’s possible that water in the past allowed for life to grow.
The scientists ruled out a few possible sources for the structures. They found no signs of cyanobacteria, which need sunlight to survive.
Fungi also weren’t involved, as there were no signs of their digestive enzymes or fungal networks.
The structures were too large to have been created by individual organisms. The team believes they were made by colonies of microorganisms, working together to form the tunnels.
The researchers found calcium carbonate dust in the passages, but no fossils. Microscopic exams showed that the structures couldn’t have been made by chemical or physical processes alone.
The chemical composition of the rocks clearly indicated that living organisms were involved.
This suggests that microorganisms may still be living inside the rocks, hidden away in the desert.
This discovery could open the door to new research and the possibility of uncovering unknown life forms.
It raises exciting questions about what else might be hidden in the most extreme corners of our planet.
