On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems

Details On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems

Apr 2009

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009ijasb...8...95j&link_type=abstract

International Journal of Astrobiology, Volume 8, Issue 2, p. 95-100

Biology

Biomarkers, Endospores, Panspermia, Viruses

Scientific paper

Viruses are the dominant form of genetically reproducing entities on Earth. Yet, viruses are mostly neglected in the context of astrobiology due to their non-living nature. In this discussion it is considered whether viruses are likely to be transferred within bacterial endospores to other planetary bodies through lithopanspermia. Interestingly, it seems possible that ecosystems of panspermial origin might yield biospheres in which viruses are absent. The evolutionary pathway of life in these systems might differ significantly from the path observed on Earth. We hypothesize that the difference in the two potential ways for the emergence of life, those being panspermial or local origin, on any certain planet could be clarified by analyzing the diversity of virosphere on the planet. The use of viruses as putative biomarkers is also discussed and studied.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and On the astrobiological relevance of viruses in extraterrestrial ecosystems will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1522818