The bacteria that won't wake up: NASA discovers new bacteria 'playing dead'

Phys.org12/3/2025 • Last cited 12/3/2025

Summary

NASA researchers have discovered a bacterium that can enter an extreme dormant state, effectively "playing dead" to survive in some of the cleanest environments on Earth, according to Phys.org. This finding highlights the microbe's unique adaptability in extreme conditions.

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Lindy Score Breakdown

35
Age (0-35)
42 days
4
Velocity (0-40)
1 source (low traction)
6
Tier (0-10)
Phys.org
0
Breadth (0-15)
1 unique
Total Score45/100

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Score BreakdownRisk 50

Source Reputation: Low-trust source (6/20 pts)
Consensus: Single source - no independent confirmation yet
Age: 42 days - proven survivor

Stories gain Lindy status through source reputation, network consensus, and time survival.

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