The Oldest Organism - Andrew Reza

    What are the oldest organisms still alive? Some would mention the Great Basin Bristlecone pine tree, others the antarctic glass sponge. While these creatures are thousands of years in age, there is something older than any other: a bacterial cell of Bacillus 2-9-3, extracted from a salt crystal and still alive. It is believed that this bacterial is around 250 millions years old.

    This strain of bacteria is apart of the families Bacillus marismortui and Virgibacillus pantothenticus, salt-loving bacteria. Some 250 million years ago, this particular cell formed spores around itself. However, before they could spread, salt water crystallized over them. As a result, the bacteria was trapped in a brine pocket, and would not see the light of day for the next couple hundred million years.

    Before this discovery, the oldest known organism was found encased in ancient amber, inside the body of a bee who is currently extinct. Thorough testing was done on the crystal to ensure that it had no point recrystallized, and that there was no cross contamination at any point. This bacteria, however, was a measly 25-30 million years old in comparison. 

    Of course, the discovery of such an ancient organism wasn't just a fun fact. It resulted in a spark of discussion over the origins of life. Some in the scientific community believe that the first organisms arrived on Earth via a meteor, comet, or other celestial body. The nearest stars are 4.2 years away from Earth, and the nearest galaxy is 2.2 million years away. Therefore, hypothetically speaking, they believe is possible for a single organism to survive throughout the entire journey. Furthermore, some scientist also have connected these types of bacteria and their ability to survive in salt to the possibility of life surviving in salt deposits on Mars. Old debates have been opened back up following the return of an even older specimen.