Mats of giant sulphur bacteria on deep-sea sediments due to fluctuating hydrothermal flow
Article Abstract:
Unusually large bacteria of the genus Beggiatoa form thick mats on the 2,000 meter deep floor of the Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California. Oxygen, sulphide, pH and temperature data show that the mats modify a small-scale hydrothermal flow from vents. This flow enables the bacteria to obtain the oxygen- and hydrogen sulphide-bearing substrate from which they generate energy. The bacteria's large size and the mats' coarseness are adaptations that keep the hydrothermal flow from dispersing the bacterial colonies.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1992
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Space for hydrogen
Article Abstract:
Issues are presented concerning the generation of molecular hydrogen by mats of a microscopic photosynthetic organism known as cyanobacteria. The possible impact of these microorganisms on the Earth's atmospheric evolution is discussed.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2001
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The role of microbial mats in the production of reduced gases on the early Earth
Article Abstract:
Research is presented concerning the influence of microbial mats consisting predominantly of cyanobacteria in the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis on Earth. The contribution of the mats to biological productivity is discussed.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2001
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