Scientists from the University of Colorado discovered that climbers left a frozen microbial trail on Everest. The findings of the study were presented as follows: article in Arctic, Antarctic and Alpine Studies.
In their study, the scientists analyzed samples taken from a parking lot at an altitude of 8,000 km. At this point, climbers make their last camp before climbing the mountain. It is convenient as there is a rocky gorge between Everest and the top of Lhotse, blown by the winds and free from snow.
Previously, researchers were unable to identify microbes in soil samples taken from this site. But now, with the help of modern gene sequencing technologies, scientists have been able to identify the microorganisms humans left behind. The team also collected soil samples from other cold places on the planet, but nowhere else did they find as many human microbes as on Everest.
The authors were surprised that some microbes, which mostly live in warm and humid environments, have changed and survived in harsh conditions.
The bacteria from this footprint can withstand harsh conditions at high altitudes and persist in the soil for decades or even centuries. According to the scientists, the results of their work will help to better understand where life might exist on other planets or during colder months.