While the majority of them just aren’t bothered by the high levels of radiation, some of the fungi – known as “black” or “radiotrophic” fungi – actually eat the radiation. They’re armed with melanin that allows them to convert gamma radiation into chemical energy for growth, and it’s possible it helps shield them from the harmful effects of the radiation itself. Not only that, but they actually seem to grow faster the higher their exposure to radiation. Fungi That Eats Radiation Are Alive and Well in Chernobyl Ionizing radiation: how fungi cope, adapt, and exploit with the help of melanin - ScienceDirect Melanin is responsible for the dark color of many organisms. What is less known is that this class of pigments can also reduce the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation. Melanin Protection: Chernobyl Black Frogs Reveal Evolution in Action
