Microbes have been discovered in a 2-billion-year-old rock from South Africa’s Bushveld Igneous Complex, marking the oldest known instance of living microbes in ancient rock. Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to confirm the microbes’ indigenous nature, ruling out contamination. This discovery, published in Microbial Ecology, could enhance understanding of early life evolution and aid in the search for extraterrestrial life. The Bushveld Igneous Complex is notable for its rich ore deposits, including a significant portion of the world’s platinum.