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Review
. 2025 Nov 12;16(11):e0168625.
doi: 10.1128/mbio.01686-25. Epub 2025 Sep 23.

mGem: Submarine mycology-an analog to astromycology

Adam P Prucka  1   2 , Joan W Bennett  3 , Radames J B Cordero  4
Affiliations
Review

mGem: Submarine mycology-an analog to astromycology

Adam P Prucka et al. mBio. .

Abstract

Submarines and spacecraft share several features that may promote the presence of fungi, including recirculated ventilation systems, moist areas, and close-quarters living. In this article, we introduce the idea of "submarine mycology" and explore how research on submarine fungi can inform the emerging field of astromycology. We highlight parallels in the fungal species present in both environments, while also noting key differences such as radiation exposure and microgravity. Arguing that submarines offer valuable lessons for spaceflight, we advocate for renewed research using modern genetic tools to characterize submarine fungi.

Keywords: astromycology; bioaerosols in submarines; closed habitat fungi; fungal contamination; fungal ecology spacecraft; fungi in space; mycotic infections in confined environments; space microbiology; spaceflight health risks; submarine microbiome; submarine mycology; terrestrial analogs for space research.

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Conflict of interest statement

R.J.B.C. is a founder of MelaTech, a company dedicated to the manufacturing of fungal melanin and research and development of biotechnologies.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1
Environmental and operational parallels and differences between submarines and spacecraft relevant to fungal persistence. Submarines operate under Earth’s gravity and are surrounded by seawater, while spacecraft operate under microgravity, are exposed to cosmic radiation, and are surrounded by the vacuum of space. Nevertheless, both vehicles share conditions that promote fungal persistence, including crew confinement, recirculated air, the utilization of materials prone to degradation, humid or moist areas, stress and limited sleep, and limited medical care. The identification of overlapping fungal taxa—including members of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium—in both vessels underscores the relevance of submarines as an analog environment for studying fungal risks in spaceflight.
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References

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