These microbes survive boiling water and acid - and could help save the Earth
Microorganisms that survive boiling springs, acid and even ice could become an unexpected ally in the fight against climate change. Scientists have found that such microbes are already being used in industry and ecology.
We are talking about so-called extremophiles - microbes that can live where most organisms die.
They're found
- in hot springs
- in glaciers
- in highly acidic or alkaline environments
- under high pressure at depth
It is these properties that make them particularly valuable to science.
Details
Extreme microbes produce enzymes that do not break down under harsh conditions.
Because of this, they are used
- in medical tests (e.g. PCR)
- in the production of biofuels
- in household chemicals
- in waste treatment
Why it's important
Some of these microorganisms are capable of
- cleanse water and soil of toxins and heavy metals
- recycle waste
- reduce environmental impact
Scientists are also using gene technology to enhance these properties.
In addition, the conditions in which these microbes live are similar to those on other planets.
So studying them helps us understand
- where to look for life beyond Earth
- and what it might be
Microbes that can survive in the harshest environments could prove to be an important tool, from ecology to space exploration.
Source
The study is published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology.