These 100-Million-Year-Old Microbes Are Still Alive!

The video explores the discovery of ancient microbes beneath the South Pacific Gyre, an oceanic desert. Scientists used a research ship to collect clay samples from the sea floor, which were 101.5 million years old. In the lab, they revived microbial communities by adding nutrients. The team ensured no contamination occurred during sampling. These microbes survive with minimal energy, suggesting potential for life in similar extraterrestrial environments.

What challenges do these microbes face in their environment, and how do they overcome them?

What implications does the discovery of these ancient microbes have for the search for life on other planets?