689 Fungal Species Discovered in Ancient Michigan Groundwater 1,640 Feet Down

Scientists have discovered 689 species of fungi thriving in ancient groundwater located 1,640 feet beneath Michigan. The water hosting this ecosystem has been isolated from the surface for approximately 11,000 years, dating back to the last Ice Age. Alongside the fungi, researchers also found microscopic organisms including worms and tardigrades living in the deep subsurface environment. The discovery offers new insights into life that can survive in extreme, isolated underground conditions. Researchers believe the findings could significantly change how scientists understand and track the movement of carbon beneath the Earth's surface.