This chapter explores the extreme environment of Antarctica, contrasting its current state with its lush past and detailing the exploration and scientific research conducted there, particularly focusing on Lake Vostok. It investigates the discovery and study of the DNA of organisms found in the lake, revealing insights into ancient life and evolution. A significant portion is dedicated to the history of evolutionary theory, tracing ideas from Lamarck to Darwin and Mendel, leading to a discussion about mutation and heredity at the quantum level, suggesting that quantum mechanics might play a role in genetic changes and evolution.