Scientists have discovered the first animal that can survive without oxygen in its surroundings. The finding surprised researchers, revealing that life can adapt to endure conditions once thought impossible, including those found in space.
Henneguya salminicola is a member of the phylum Cnidaria, which also includes jellyfish and sea anemones, and it was discovered within the muscle tissue of salmon in the North Pacific. Over time, it evolved to lose the mitochondrial DNA that normally enables cells to produce energy through respiration.
Discovery Through Advanced Analysis
Researchers at Tel Aviv University in Israel identified the animal by using fluorescence microscopy and genetic sequencing, which revealed that it lacks mitochondrial DNA.
This finding changed the scientists’ perspective, demonstrating that anaerobic organisms—once thought impossible according to biology textbooks—can indeed exist.
In addition, the discovery opens up new lines of inquiry into the potential for life and complex organisms within our Solar System and in other regions of space.
Although its presence in salmon poses no risk to humans, it can create issues for the fishing industry. As a result, identifying H. salminicola may prompt the introduction of new guidelines for monitoring and regulating fish sales.
Read the original article on: Cnn Brasil
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