Living strategies of unusual life forms on Earth and the relevance to astrobiology

Patrick J. Liesch; Vera M. Kolb

doi:10.1117/12.731346

1 October 2007 Living strategies of unusual life forms on Earth and the relevance to astrobiology

Patrick J. Liesch, Vera M. Kolb

Proceedings Volume 6694, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology X; 66941F (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.731346
Event: Optical Engineering + Applications, 2007, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the astrobiological importance of various viruses, nanobacteria, Archaea and bacteria. Viruses and nanobacteria challenge the current definitions of life, but we consider them here as life forms. Nanobacteria have interesting mode of fossilization and have a potential for creating biosignatures. Archaea and some bacteria make unique lipid-related compounds that can be used as biosignatures. We focus on the organisms and life forms that seem to be well suited for the life on Mars or other extraterrestrial environments that are harsh. Many of these organisms and life forms share their genetic material freely with other organisms and species. Such an altruistic approach may have been typical for the early life on Earth.

Citation Download Citation

Patrick J. Liesch and Vera M. Kolb "Living strategies of unusual life forms on Earth and the relevance to astrobiology", Proc. SPIE 6694, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology X, 66941F (1 October 2007); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.731346

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