Oil consuming bacteria found at sea bottom

CONTEXT:

  • Scientists have discovered a unique oil eating bacteria in the Mariana Trench.

BACKGROUND

  • In an expedition, organised by marine explorer and film director James Cameron, researchers collected samples from the trench.
  • In the samples, they found microorganisms that eat compounds similar to those in oil and then use it for fuel.
  • The bacteria are likely deriving a significant portion of their food from pollution that sinks from the ocean surface. But scientists also found evidence that some of the hydrocarbons are sourced from below.
Share Socially