Evolution Of Plant Species

Through the process of photosynthesis, plants can absorb Carbon Dioxide and convert it to organic matters like carbohydrate and protein molecules. Within an ecosystem, we call these plants primary producers. The organic matter produced by these plant species is used by animals, which we call primary and secondary consumers, to sustain life.

If it is Too Hot?

There is evidence that "plants in hot climates have [can] evolved [evolve] C4 photosynthesis to concentrate Carbon Dioxide within their leaves to boost plant productivity" ("plants Evolve").

If it is Too Cold?

Because of Mars' massive amount of CO2 in its atmosphere and far distance from the sun, it can reach extremely cold temperatures during the winter months. Thankfully, there is evidence that shows elevated carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere can make plants more tolerable to colder climates ( Friedlander p. 1).

What About Soil Nutrition?

The fact is, NASA has confirmed that "the soil on Mars actually does have the nutrients plants would need to survive" (Jordan 1). The downside is, the soil might not have the correct amount of nutrients. To solve this issue, we would need to artificially add the nutrients needed for plant growth into the soil, or we can introduce what we call decomposers. In an ecosystem, decomposers are a special type of primary producers, in the form of insects, that break down or "decompose" the nutrients in the soil and convert it to organic matter plant species can use for growth. A potential decomposer that could balance the soil nutrients on Mars is the Red Flat Back Beetle which has the ability to withstand temperatures all the way down to -238 degrees Fahrenheit. Another solution could be to add plant species that can the capability of fertilizing their own soil. One of these species is called "The Venus Flytrap."

So What Would Plants Look Like?

The evolution of plant phenotypic traits could undergo two drastic changes because of the colder temperatures on Mars. First, plant species could radically evolve taller phenotypical structures (Körner par. 9). This is because taller structures allow them to capture more heat from the sun during the day. On the other hand, plant species may dwarf into miniature versions of themselves (Körner par. 9). This is because of the warmer temperature on the ground than above it. 

(Sections By: Jacob Lewis)