Chinese scientists have found a groundbreaking solution to lunar agriculture, as they investigate the potential of bacteria to enhance moon soil. Discover how this breakthrough could support sustainable farming on the moon. Read more at dzwatch.net.
In light of the plans of many nations to return humans to the moon, addressing various challenges becomes imperative. One of the simplest yet critical challenges is finding a way to feed individuals working there for extended periods. While having lunar inhabitants grow their own food seems like an obvious solution, it raises logistical issues, such as transporting soil from Earth to the moon for plant cultivation.
Scientific Efforts for Moon Farming
Last year, a team in the United States demonstrated the possibility of growing plants on the moon by cultivating a small number of invasive plants known as “rapa weed” in real lunar soil samples. While the test showed that lunar soil could be effective, it wasn’t ideal for the maturation and production of food.
Recently, a team of agricultural engineers and biotechnicians at the Chinese Agricultural University discovered that adding bacteria to simulated lunar soil increased the phosphate content, making it accessible to plants.
In their study published in the “Biological Communications” journal, the group introduced three types of bacteria into samples of volcanic materials. They then assessed the samples for their acidity and their ability to support plant growth. The research team found that introducing these microorganisms into lunar soil improved its suitability for hosting plant life.
Researchers Found Moon Soil Farming Possible with Bacterial Enhancement
Three Types of Bacteria
To test the feasibility of using microorganisms like bacteria to make lunar soil more conducive for plant life, the research team obtained samples of volcanic materials from a mountain in China. According to a report on “Viz Dot Org,” the tests indicated that this could serve as a reasonable alternative to lunar rocky soil. Subsequently, the researchers added one of three types of bacteria to three separate test containers filled with volcanic material. These bacteria included the bioluminescent pseudomonads, the giant stickies, and the mucoid stickies.
After introducing the bacteria to the soil samples, the researchers conducted tests to determine the effects. They found that the addition of these three bacteria species made the soil samples more acidic, resulting in a lower pH level. This dissolution of otherwise insoluble phosphate-containing minerals in the soil led to the release of phosphorus, making it available for plants.
Following this, the research team conducted a direct test using the treated soil for planting a species called “Nicotiana benthamiana.” The improved soil produced plants with stronger roots, taller stems, and larger leaves compared to untreated samples.
In conclusion, the addition of bacteria to lunar soil holds promising potential for supporting sustainable agriculture on the moon. This breakthrough discovery opens up new possibilities for feeding long-term lunar residents as we continue to explore and colonize our celestial neighbor. For more information on this groundbreaking research, visit dzwatch.net.
