Bacteria relying on radioactivity

[arcticpenguin]

http://sciencenow.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/2003/216/2
(ScienceNow - subscription only)


Deep underground, uranium atoms in rocks undergo radioactive decay, sending off alpha particles--two protons and two neutrons--that can bump into other molecules and change them. Scientists wondered if that might create gases that microbes could live on. For instance, when particles from uranium bump into water, they can create hydrogen gas, hydrogen peroxide, and oxygen. Microbes might use the hydrogen gas and hydrocarbons formed from the gas as food. Now geomicrobiologist T. C. Onstott of Princeton University in New Jersey has found evidence that underground microbes are doing just that.

Another obscure niche to which bacteria are adapted.

 

[Soapy Sam]

And, worldwide, a potentially large one.

 

[Guest]

Another obscure niche to which bacteria are adapted.

Did you ever read about the mutation that feeds on nylon monomer? It was found in Japan a few years ago. I can dig up the reference if you're interested.

Cheers,

 

[Soapy Sam]

Does that precede Chrichton's "Andromeda Strain?" If not, it might be time for the second edition. I'd certainly like to see the link Bill.