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New Heat-Loving Amoeba Challenges Limits of Life on Earth

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

Incendiamoeba cascadensis is a newly identified heat-loving amoeba species found in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California.
It divides at 63°C (145°F) and remains active up to 64°C, temperatures beyond known limits for complex life.
Researchers attribute its resilience to specialized heat-protection proteins.
The finding could reshape understanding of life's potential on Earth and beyond, suggesting similar organisms may exist in other geothermal regions worldwide.

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Story summary

Incendiamoeba cascadensis is a newly identified heat-loving amoeba species found in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California.
It divides at 63°C (145°F) and remains active up to 64°C, temperatures beyond known limits for complex life.
Researchers attribute its resilience to specialized heat-protection proteins.
The finding could reshape understanding of life's potential on Earth and beyond, suggesting similar organisms may exist in other geothermal regions worldwide.