[PrinceRichard]

Biologically dead? A foolhardy assertion for anyone to make. Nature is nothing if not robust! I have no doubt that at the minimum microbial life has been flourishing throughout, with many other beings likely hiding from view.

[danparsonson]

That sounds like valuable research you've done - were you able to do it all from your armchair or did you have to go and take samples?

[hunterb123]

I'd say the burden of proof is on those who claimed it is biologically dead. I'd find it hard to believe no microbial life was in the Thames.

You find life in the most harsh environments, geysers, volcano vents, miles deep in mines.

But in reality the statement "biologically dead" is a hyperbole from the media meaning fish and animals weren't present, not microbes or biological life in general.

GP was making a tongue-in-cheek statement against that hyperbole I believe.

I'll see my way out...

[danparsonson]

Sure, but I replied sarcastically because OPs remark was akin to 'my house wasn't "consumed by an inferno", part of the back wall is still standing!' and therefore somewhat missing the point....