The radiation-eating fungus in Chernobyl, known as *Cladosporium sphaerospermum*, is a remarkable organism that has adapted to thrive in the extreme conditions of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Discovered growing on the walls of the highly radioactive reactor, this fungus utilizes melanin to convert gamma radiation into chemical energy, much like how plants use chlorophyll for photosynthesis. This unique ability allows the fungus to not only survive but also potentially detoxify radioactive environments. The study of these fungi offers promising insights into bioremediation and the potential for developing new radiation shielding technologies.
