Tobreak

Tobreak is a fictional entity appearing in the science fiction novel "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir. In the narrative, Tobreak is a microscopic, single-celled organism native to the planet Erid. These organisms are characterized by their ability to metabolize xenonite, a unique mineral found on Erid, which forms the basis of their survival and reproduction.

The xenonite-eating properties of Tobreak are crucial to the plot of "Project Hail Mary." The protagonist, Ryland Grace, discovers that Tobreak is essential for the survival of the Eridians, an alien species who have engineered their civilization around the cultivation and utilization of xenonite. The organisms consume xenonite, breaking it down into a usable form of energy for the Eridians.

Tobreak's life cycle and biological functions are a central element of the scientific challenges Grace faces. Understanding how Tobreak interacts with xenonite, its reproductive methods, and its environmental needs becomes vital for the human crew's mission. The organism's resilience and specific dietary requirements highlight the alien nature of Eridian biology and the complex ecosystem that has evolved on the planet. The depiction of Tobreak serves as a key example of xenobiology within the novel, illustrating how life can adapt to and thrive on vastly different planetary conditions.