Thirteen mouse mummies were found atop volcanoes in Chile and Argentina about 20,000 feet above sea level.
The discovery has baffled scientists who did not think mammals could live at such high elevations.
The species is known to live at high elevations, but baffled scientists at more than 20,000 feet.
The scientists are now looking for signs of physiological adaptations that may allow these mice to survive at high elevations with low oxygen levels.
Storz's team is also continuing to search the volcano tops for signs of mice, living or mummified.
Persons:
—, Jay Storz, University of Nebraska — Lincoln, Marcial Quiroga, Carmona, Storz, Mario Pérez
Organizations:
Service, University of Nebraska
Locations:
Chile, Argentina, University of Nebraska —