jääkilites

Jääkilites are a group of microorganisms that exhibit psychrophilic (cold-loving) properties and possess the ability to survive and metabolize in extremely cold environments, often at or below the freezing point of water. The term "jääkilites" is a Finnish compound word, with "jää" meaning ice and "kili" referring to a type of slime or mucus, implying an association with icy or frozen habitats and potentially a slime-like consistency. These organisms are of significant interest in astrobiology due to their potential to exist in icy moons and other extraterrestrial cold environments.

Research into jääkilites often focuses on identifying novel species and understanding their unique adaptations to extreme cold. These adaptations can include specialized enzymes that function efficiently at low temperatures, antifreeze proteins that prevent ice crystal formation within their cells, and altered cell membrane structures to maintain fluidity. Their metabolic processes are typically slow, reflecting the reduced chemical reaction rates at low temperatures. Studies have explored their presence in polar ice caps, glaciers, and deep-sea cold environments on Earth. The discovery and study of jääkilites contribute to our understanding of the limits of life and the potential for life to exist in ostensibly inhospitable conditions.