Bac.eria with ‘unique abilities’ has mutated

Scientists aboard China’s Tiangong Space Station have discovered a new bacterial strain named Niallia tiangongensis, which exhibits unique properties that could aid the study of life in space. The bacterium, found on cockpit controls and absent from Earth’s known species, can hydrolyze gelatin, suggesting it can survive in nutrient-limited environments. Closely related to Niallia circulans, a spore-forming terrestrial bacterium known to cause infections, this spaceborne strain shows mutations that may help researchers understand microbial life’s adaptability in extreme conditions. Swabs containing the bacteria were collected in May 2023 and frozen before being returned to Earth for further study.

Though it’s unclear whether Niallia tiangongensis evolved on the space station or originated from Earth, experts stress the need for more research to determine any potential risks to astronauts’ health. The discovery reflects how resilient and adaptable microorganisms can be, even in controlled space environments. This comes after a 2024 report on Enterobacter bugandensis aboard the ISS, which had mutated into a distinct strain compared to Earth-based versions, raising health concerns. Experts believe space-specific stressors may drive such microbial evolution, making ongoing microbial research vital to astronaut safety and the future of long-term space missions.