Deinococcus radiodurans

Deinococcus radiodurans is one of the world's toughest known life forms, famous for its incredible ability to survive extreme conditions. This remarkable bacterium can endure radiation doses thousands of times stronger than what would kill a human, complete dehydration, extreme cold, and even the vacuum of space. Its secret lies in an extraordinary DNA repair system that can quickly fix shattered genetic material. First discovered accidentally in spoiled canned meat that had been sterilized by radiation, this microbe has fascinated scientists studying everything from nuclear waste cleanup to the potential for life on other planets. Its extreme durability makes it a champion of survival in Earth's harshest environments.