Unusual Ocean Microbe Discovered - ScienceDaily

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In summary, a new microorganism has been discovered in the open ocean that may change the way scientists understand the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in ocean ecosystems. Despite not being able to grow it in the lab, researchers have analyzed its genetic material and found it to be related to other cyanobacteria. This bacterium is unique as it does not carry out photosynthesis, but is a prolific nitrogen fixer. It is believed to have a symbiotic relationship with neighboring organisms, providing them with nitrogen while receiving organic matter in return. Further research is being conducted to better understand the ecology of this microbe.
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http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081113181037.htm

ScienceDaily (Nov. 15, 2008) — An unusual microorganism discovered in the open ocean may force scientists to rethink their understanding of how carbon and nitrogen cycle through ocean ecosystems. A research team led by Jonathan Zehr, professor of ocean sciences at the University of California, Santa Cruz, characterized the new microbe by analyzing its genetic material, even though researchers have not been able to grow it in the laboratory.

This story sort of stood out, i hope it is interesting.
 
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It is interesting.. Evidently they are related to other cyanobacteria (f.k.a. bluegreen algae) that do carry on photosynthesis (this one does not). Other cyanobacteria also fix nitrogen, but not to as large an extent as this newly discovered bacterium. They can't make this one grow in the lab, however in nature, it could be a symbiont. It can provide usable nitrogen to neighboring organisms and in turn, they could provide organic matter (food) enabling these cyanobacteria to grow. They are continuing to study this microbe's ecology..
 
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I find this discovery of an unusual microbe in the open ocean to be very intriguing. The fact that this microbe has not been able to be grown in a laboratory suggests that it may have unique characteristics and adaptations that have yet to be fully understood. The analysis of its genetic material is a crucial step in understanding its role in the ocean ecosystem and how it may contribute to the cycling of carbon and nitrogen. This discovery highlights the importance of continued research in the field of ocean microbiology and the need for innovative methods to study these elusive organisms. It also raises questions about our current understanding of ocean ecosystems and how this new microbe may impact our understanding of nutrient cycling. I look forward to seeing further studies on this microbe and its potential implications for the ocean environment.
 

FAQ: Unusual Ocean Microbe Discovered - ScienceDaily

What is the significance of this discovery?

The discovery of an unusual ocean microbe is significant because it increases our understanding of the diversity of microbial life on Earth. This microbe may have unique characteristics and adaptations that could potentially lead to new scientific discoveries and advancements in various fields.

How was this microbe discovered?

This microbe was discovered through a combination of traditional sampling methods and advanced genetic sequencing techniques. Scientists collected water samples from various depths in the ocean and analyzed the genetic material present in those samples to identify the microbe.

What makes this microbe unusual?

This microbe is unusual due to its unique genetic makeup and characteristics. It may have distinct adaptations and behaviors that differentiate it from other known microbes, making it a valuable subject for further study and research.

What could this discovery mean for the future?

This discovery could have significant implications for various industries, such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, as this microbe may have properties that could be harnessed for beneficial purposes. It also highlights the vast potential for new discoveries in the ocean and the importance of preserving and studying our oceans.

How does this discovery impact our understanding of the ocean?

This discovery expands our knowledge of the incredible diversity of life in the ocean and reinforces the idea that there is still so much left to discover. It also highlights the importance of studying and protecting our oceans, as they are home to an abundance of unique and important organisms.

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