Magnetotactic bacteria spotted in rock varnish layers in Ladakh
Magnetofossils fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by magnetotactic bacteria have been spotted in rock varnish layers in Ladakh.
A study found that rock varnish in Ladakh, containing magnetofossils, could help identify habitable environments in space.
Magnetofossils are fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by MTB.
The findings highlighted
the potential of rock varnish as an archive of ancient environmental records and as a geomaterial for astrobiological studies.
By identifying biotic signatures in rock varnish, scientists can better target potential biosignatures on Mars and other planetary bodies, aiding the search for extraterrestrial life.
This information is crucial for planning future space missions by ISRO and other space agencies, including Mars exploration, where identifying habitable environments is a primary goal.
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Image copyright @ Planetary and Space Science (Elsevier),2024
About Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB)
- MTB are widespread, motile, diverse prokaryotes.
- They biomineralize a unique organelle called the magnetosome (consists of magnetic iron mineral).
- These bacteria bacteria can orientate themselves within Earth’s geomagnetic field.