21/07/2025
In the ruins of Chernobyl, scientists found a fungus that feeds on radiation.
It’s called Cladosporium sphaerospermum, a black fungus discovered growing on the walls of Chernobyl’s Reactor 4, one of the most radioactive environments on Earth. But instead of dying off, this strange organism thrives – by absorbing deadly gamma radiation and converting it into energy.
The process is known as radiosynthesis, and it’s similar to photosynthesis in plants – except instead of using sunlight, this fungus uses radiation to power its growth. It’s one of the few known organisms on Earth to do so.
But the real twist? This fungus might be useful in space.
When researchers sent C. sphaerospermum to the International Space Station, it not only survived – it grew. Even more impressively, it blocked up to 84% of incoming cosmic radiation. That suggests it could one day be used as a natural radiation shield for astronauts on deep-space missions, where exposure is a major health risk.
Back on Earth, scientists are exploring its potential for bioremediation by using it to help clean up radioactive sites that are too dangerous for humans to enter. Its ability to tolerate and even absorb radiation could make it a valuable tool for nuclear disaster recovery.
“It’s like nature engineered a biological radiation shield,” one researcher noted.
From nuclear fallout to space exploration, this humble black fungus may hold the key to surviving some of the most extreme environments in the universe.
Learn more:
Travers, Scott. “This Black Fungus Might Be Healing Chernobyl by Drinking Radiation – A Biologist Explains.” Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024
