Can multicellular life be sustained with gamma rays?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the possibility of multicellular life being sustained by gamma rays, prompted by the existence of certain microorganisms that may utilize radiation for energy. The scope includes theoretical implications for astrobiology and the conditions under which life could arise in extreme environments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that if bacteria can derive energy from gamma rays, then multicellular life might also be capable of doing so, potentially expanding the habitable zones in the universe.
  • Another participant questions the validity of the claim regarding bacteria using gamma rays for energy, noting that while some bacteria are resistant to ionizing radiation, none are known to convert gamma rays into usable energy.
  • A third participant agrees with the skepticism, emphasizing the significant challenges posed by ionizing radiation at the microscopic level and suggesting that any energy conversion might involve reactive oxygen species.
  • A later reply corrects the initial claim, stating that it is actually a fungus, not a bacterium, that has been identified as utilizing radiation, referencing a specific type of radiotrophic fungus.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express skepticism about the initial claim regarding bacteria and gamma rays, with no consensus on the possibility of multicellular life utilizing gamma rays for energy. Multiple competing views remain regarding the mechanisms of energy conversion from radiation.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of energy conversion and the specific mechanisms by which organisms might utilize radiation. The claims about bacteria and fungi are not fully substantiated within the thread.

Nightvid Cole
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If there are bacteria that can get their energy from gamma rays (thus thriving on nuclear reactors), can multicellular life do it too?

If so, wouldn't that broaden the parts of the universe where life could arise?
 
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Nightvid Cole said:
there are bacteria that can get their energy from gamma rays (thus thriving on nuclear reactors)
Is this true? Do you have a source for this claim? There are certainly bacteria that are quite resistant to ionizing radiation, but none that I know can convert gamma rays into useable energy.
 
I agree, I think there is a big "IF" in that first sentence. I've never heard of such a thing either. Ionizing radiation tends to do too much damage on the microscopic level to be useful. Maybe there's a mechanism for converting reactive oxygen species into useful energy?
 

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