A single-celled Antarctic organism could help guide research in cryogenics, stem cell research and food safety.

Researchers at the University of Tasmania have uncovered the Antarctic micro-organism but say it is under threat from climate change.

The bright orange bacteria excretes massive amounts of slimy, complex carbohydrates and anti-freeze proteins, which help it survive in the cold.

The University's Professor John Bowman said its adaptations to the Antarctic environment make it unique in the bacterial world.

"The antifreezes that it produces could be used in various applications where you want to control freezing," he said.

"It also produces these special fatty acids which could be potentially used in nutritional applications.

"It produces omega three polyunsaturated fatty acids, it could be a new source for them."

Professor Bowman said he is determined to uncover the slime's secrets before climate change melts the rare pockets of ice it lives in.