How Chernobyl fungi use radiation as energy

Some Chernobyl fungi may gain energy from radiation

Some dark fungi found in and around the Chernobyl nuclear plant appear able to use radiation in ways that may help them grow. Instead of radiation being only harmful, these fungi may be able to turn some of its energy to their advantage.

3,828 liquidators

Chernobyl's roof had to be cleared by people after robots failed

High radiation disabled many remote-controlled robots sent to clear debris from the Chernobyl reactor roof. Instead, 3,828 workers had to remove the most radioactive pieces by hand. Some could stay on the roof for only 40–90 seconds at a time.

Britain gave a trading company powers normally reserved for governments

The English East India Company began as a commercial enterprise, but royal charters granted it extraordinary authority overseas. In territories under its control, it could administer justice, maintain armed forces, mint money and negotiate with other powers. A private company could therefore operate simultaneously as a merchant, military force and government.

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How Chernobyl fungi use radiation as energy

Some Chernobyl fungi may gain energy from radiation

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