Subterranean Microbes: Embracing Minimalism or Maximizing Potential?
Researchers have conducted a study on the microbes living deep underground, uncovering nearly 600 microbial genomes and categorizing them as either "minimalists" or "maximalists." The study expands our understanding of these elusive organisms and suggests that similar life forms could potentially exist on Mars. The findings also highlight the importance of considering the impact of human activities, such as mining and carbon storage, on the deep subsurface biosphere.