Black Fungus at Chernobyl Evolves to Consume Radiation
Scientists studying fungi at Chernobyl found that a black fungus, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, not only tolerates radiation but appears to grow toward it, leading to potential applications in creating living radiation shields for space travel. Experiments on the ISS showed the fungus's growth may be enhanced by radiation, and its melanin content could help neutralize radiation damage, suggesting a future where biological materials could be used to protect astronauts from space radiation. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and develop practical applications.
