Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Connor White, Junior Katherine Campbell, Junior Hannah Lyons, Senior, Alexander Evanow, Junior Dr. Sean Crouse, Faculty Mentor
Lead Presenter's Name
Connor White
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Aviation
Faculty Mentor Name
Sean Crouse
Abstract
Astrobiological gigantism refers to the potential emergence of disproportionately large organisms in extraterrestrial aquatic environments, particularly within the subsurface oceans of water-based moons and exoplanets. This paper examines the evolutionary, ecological, and environmental factors that could drive the development of gigantism beyond Earth, drawing parallels with deep-sea gigantism observed in Earth's oceans. By integrating astrobiology, planetary science, and evolutionary biology, this research aims to establish a framework for understanding how life may evolve under extreme conditions and what implications such discoveries may have for the search for extraterrestrial life. Further, this study evaluates specific celestial bodies—Europa and Enceladus—that may provide suitable conditions for such organisms. The inclusion of these celestial bodies refines our theoretical framework, aiding future astrobiological missions.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Astrobiological Gigantism: An Examination of Deep-Sea Gigantism in Extraterrestrial Oceans
Astrobiological gigantism refers to the potential emergence of disproportionately large organisms in extraterrestrial aquatic environments, particularly within the subsurface oceans of water-based moons and exoplanets. This paper examines the evolutionary, ecological, and environmental factors that could drive the development of gigantism beyond Earth, drawing parallels with deep-sea gigantism observed in Earth's oceans. By integrating astrobiology, planetary science, and evolutionary biology, this research aims to establish a framework for understanding how life may evolve under extreme conditions and what implications such discoveries may have for the search for extraterrestrial life. Further, this study evaluates specific celestial bodies—Europa and Enceladus—that may provide suitable conditions for such organisms. The inclusion of these celestial bodies refines our theoretical framework, aiding future astrobiological missions.