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.

Natural history, Hydrothermal vent ecology, Hydrothermal vent ecosystems, Sulfur bacteria, Gulf of California

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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.

Evaluation, Hydrogen, Atmospheric research

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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.

History, Earth, Letter to the Editor, Biological productivity

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