Recently, NASA scientists have compiled years of imaging research to find that there is actually water on mars. It may look barren from afar, but up-close during certain seasons, salt water is present.
“Actual water, in a liquid state, flowing on Mars today- not millions of years ago.”
When I was a kid, I remember research coming out about how Mars could have had water and life on it at one point, but not currently. Oh how the times have changed! With better cameras and technology it’s pretty clear that those studies were wrong.
I’m no scientist, but I’m pretty sure it’s safe to assume that there should be bacteria-like forms of life in existence as well.