mAstroomlus

mAstroomlus is a fictional genus of microscopic organisms created for speculative biology and science fiction worldbuilding. It is used to illustrate taxonomic practice and the potential diversity of microbial life in extreme environments.

In-universe taxonomy places mAstroomlus in the hypothetical family Myloviraceae, order Mynosporales, class Cryptomycota, within a fictional kingdom Protista. The genus name combines the letter m, the root “astro-” referencing star-like habitats, and the Latin suffix “-lus” common in genus names.

Morphology and physiology: Members are primarily unicellular, 2–6 micrometers in size; they possess two flagella and a thick extracellular polysaccharide capsule. They are described as having a novel photopigment enabling low-light photosynthesis and can form colonies.

Habitat and ecology: In the fictional setting, mAstroomlus are found in mineral-rich, ionizing-radiation environments such as cave systems on Arcturus-4, a distant rocky world. They rely on a mixotrophic metabolism, combining autotrophy via photosynthesis with heterotrophy, enabling survival in nutrient-poor regions. They are often observed in close association with biofilm-forming partners.

In-world significance: The genus is discussed in speculative taxonomy debates as an example of how naming conventions could adapt to unknown life forms, and as a tool for teaching about phylogeny and classification uncertainties. It has been used in worldbuilding guides and science communication to illustrate the limits of Earth-centric taxonomy.

See also speculative biology and science fiction worldbuilding.